Obasanjo Reveals He Has Lived With Diabetes for Over 40 Years

ABEOKUTA — Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed that he has lived with diabetes for more than 40 years while maintaining an active and productive public life. PM News reported the disclosure on Monday. Obasanjo said his experience demonstrates that diabetes, while serious, can be managed effectively with discipline and proper medical care.

The 88-year-old former leader said he was diagnosed with the condition decades ago and immediately changed his lifestyle to manage it. He said he follows a strict diet, exercises regularly, monitors his blood sugar levels, and maintains consistent engagement with his medical team.

Obasanjo said he is sharing his experience to encourage Nigerians, particularly older adults and those with family histories of diabetes, to get tested and to take their health management seriously. He said living well with diabetes is possible but requires commitment and medical partnership.

Nigeria’s Diabetes Crisis

Nigeria has one of the highest rates of undiagnosed diabetes in Africa. The International Diabetes Federation estimates that millions of Nigerians have the condition without knowing it. Untreated diabetes leads to kidney failure, blindness, limb amputations, and death. Most of these outcomes are preventable with early detection and management.

Obasanjo’s disclosure comes in the same week that he called on Nigerians to screen for cancer following the death of Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo. His consistent public health advocacy is drawing attention to the importance of preventive healthcare among Nigeria’s political and public figures.

Endocrinologists said Obasanjo’s story is clinically instructive. They said a patient who receives a diabetes diagnosis in his forties or fifties and lives an active life into his late eighties is evidence that effective management is achievable. They urged Nigerians to see chronic disease as something to be managed, not hidden or ignored.