Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Thursday led a 15-minute symbolic walk at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Abeokuta, to promote physical activity and healthy living as a key measure in the fight against diabetes.
The event, which coincided with this year’s World Diabetes Day observed on November 14, drew participation from medical experts, security personnel of the Nigeria Police and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), as well as members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
Obasanjo, who has lived with diabetes for over three decades, did not speak to journalists after the exercise.
However, Dr. Olalekan Makinde, Executive Director of the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation (OOF), said the walk was a demonstration of the former president’s long-standing advocacy for healthy living through regular exercise and proper nutrition.
“What Baba Obasanjo has shown today is that even a short brisk walk is a powerful tool for maintaining health,” Dr. Makinde said. “Diabetes is closely linked to sedentary lifestyles and poor diet.
“Many Nigerians spend long hours in traffic or at work, consuming unhealthy foods. Baba Obasanjo is reminding us that incorporating physical activity into our daily routines is essential for longevity and well-being.”
Dr. Adedeji Otukoya, an endocrinologist at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, also participated in the walk and emphasized the importance of lifestyle modifications in preventing diabetes and related conditions.
Similarly, Dr. Ihegboro Minachiso, Medical Officer in charge of the Medical Directorate of the Ogun State Police Command, highlighted the role of regular exercise in promoting longevity.
“We all pray for long life, yet we often neglect simple habits that sustain good health,” he said. “This short walk with Baba Obasanjo illustrates how small, consistent actions can make a big difference.
Medication is important, but lifestyle changes remain the most effective preventive measure against many health challenges.”
Obasanjo, who is nearly 90 years old, regularly participates in longer walks and continues to champion fitness and wellness, serving as an inspiration for Nigerians to prioritize their health.
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