Former President Olusegun Obasanjo disclosed on Sunday that he has managed diabetes for over four decades through a lifestyle that constitutes the acronym: DREMs.
He spoke 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 held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Relating his own health journey, Obasanjo disclosed that he has lived with diabetes for more than 40 years, summarising his approach to healthy living with “what I call DREMs. D — Diet, R — Rest, E — Exercise and M — Medicals”.
He attributed the management to his active lifestyle, disciplined diet, regular exercise, adequate rest, routine medical check-ups, and strict adherence to prescribed medications.
According to the former president, “I have a disease that is not curable yet and that’s diabetes.
“I have been diagnosed diabetic more than 40 years ago. I still manage it.”
Obasanjo pointed out that maintaining a strict lifestyle routine has enabled him to remain physically active despite his advancement in age.
“But what do I do? I play squash three times a week — Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, if I’m around. I watch what I eat.
“Diet can be exciting, can be pleasurable. But if you eat badly, then the consequence can also be bad on you. And then rest,” he said.
He also explained that adequate rest is just as important as proper nutrition and exercise.
“You saw me early this morning. Then I went to church. Then I came back and I told my boy that the only time he can wake me up is when you come. And when I must rest, I will rest,” he said.
The ex-president emphasised the importance of regular medical screening and early diagnosis, advising older Nigerians to take routine health checks seriously.
