Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged Nigerians to adopt healthy lifestyles through regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and routine medical check-ups, revealing that discipline in managing his health has kept him active at the age of 89 despite living with diabetes for more than four decades.
Obasanjo made the remarks on Saturday in Abeokuta after performing the ceremonial tee-off at the 2026 FirstBank/OBJ Golf Tournament held at the Abeokuta Golf Club.
The former president stressed the importance of exercise, especially for senior citizens, noting that maintaining physical fitness and adhering to healthy habits had played a major role in his wellbeing.
“One thing you must understand is that exercise is very important at every age, and even more important when you become a senior citizen,” he said.
Obasanjo disclosed that he has managed diabetes for over 40 years while remaining active through discipline and consistent attention to his health.
He also introduced what he described as the “DREAMS + C” principle, a personal framework for healthy and balanced living.
According to him, the acronym stands for Diet, Rest, Exercise, Medical check-ups, Social interaction, and Contentment.
Explaining the principle, Obasanjo said people must pay attention to the quality of food they eat, get adequate rest, exercise regularly, and undergo medical examinations when necessary.
He also encouraged social engagement and emotional balance, adding that contentment in life helps reduce unnecessary pressure and unhealthy competition.
The former president noted that one of the reasons behind establishing a Senior Citizens Club at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library was to promote social interaction among older citizens.
Obasanjo added that the annual golf tournament provides an opportunity not only for recreation but also for exercise, networking, and national unity.
Speaking at the event, the Vice Chairman of the Abeokuta Golf Club and Chairman of the tournament’s organising committee, Oladele Adeniran, said the competition was organised in recognition of Obasanjo’s contributions to Nigeria and Africa.
Adeniran rejected claims that golf is exclusively for the wealthy, stating that many successful golfers began as caddies before advancing professionally in the sport.
He further highlighted the health benefits of golf, noting that the game promotes physical activity and can easily fit into the daily schedules of working professionals.
The tournament featured several top golfers from across the country, including Francis Ekpeyong, who emerged winner of the professional category.
Former Nigerian number-one golfer Sunday Olapade and veteran golfer Nojim Shofela finished among the leading competitors in the tournament.
