Former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed that he was diagnosed with diabetes 30 years ago, adding that for him, the disease was not death sentence.
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Obasanjo made this disclosure and assertion at a Road Walk to commemorate the 2017 World Diabetes Day organised by the South West Zone of the Diabetes Association of Nigeria (DAN) in collaboration with his library, on Friday in Abeokuta.
Speaking to newsmen after leading the two-kilometre walk held to sensitise the populace on diabetes, and how to manage it, the ex-President dismissed suggestion that the disease was life threatening, and a death sentence.
He also gave tips on how to cope with it.
“Some people said some diseases are incurable but diabetes is manageable and compliant. “What to do is that if you’re diabetic don’t be non-chalant about it and don’t eat carelessly.
“Three things are important, the food you eat, regular exercise and prescribed medication, those are the three most important things,” he advised.
The 80-year-old added that he is a living example of how to live with the disease for long.
According to him, “Diabetes is not a disease that should kill. I was diagnosed to be diabetic more than 30 years ago but rather I am growing stronger.
“If you don’t believe I am growing strong and you didn’t witness this walk, come and see me at night, you will know I am growing strong.
“Come and see me in the morning, you will know I am growing strong, even in the afternoon; you will know I am growing strong.
“My headmaster in primary school was diagnosed at the age of 50 and died at age 85; you will agree with me that he tried.”
