Obasanjo: I have been managing ‘disease with no cure’ for over 40 years

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed how he has been managing diabetes, a disease with no cure for now, for over 40 years.
Obasanjo was military Head of State from February 13, 1976 to October 1, 1979 when he handed over power to the late Alhaji Shehu Shagari.
He was also a civilian President from May 29, 1999 to May 29, 2007 when he handed over to the late Alhaji Umoru Musa Yar’Adua.
Obasanjo was diagnosed with diabetes in the 80s after leaving office as head of state.
He revealed his battle with the disease at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State while speaking at the launch of the “Lagos to the World” expedition, a global road journey aimed at promoting cancer awareness, early detection and African integration.
The event was organised by entrepreneur and BMW enthusiast, Erik Nwagwu, in memory of his mother and sister who died of cancer.
Obasanjo told the audience how he has been able to successfully manage diabetes for 40 years, stressing that regular exercise, adequate rest, routine medical checkups, strict adherence to prescribed medication,
lifestyle discipline and a healthy diet have helped him manage the condition over the years.
He said: “I have a disease that is not yet curable, and that’s diabetes. I was diagnosed with diabetes more than 40 years ago. I still manage it.
“Maintaining a strict lifestyle routine has helped me to remain physically active despite my age. What do I do? I play squash three times a week, Monday, Wednesday and Friday, if I’m around. I watch what I eat.
“Diet can be exciting, can be pleasurable. But if you eat badly, then the consequences can also be bad for you. You must also rest very well.
“Adequate rest is just as important as proper nutrition and exercise. My approach to healthy living is captured in what I call ‘DREMS’. D for Diet, R for Rest, E for Exercise and M for Medicals”.