Obasanjo shares healthy ageing tips at UCH Geriatric Forum

Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has advised Nigerians, particularly the elderly, to embrace ageing as a natural and graceful process, stressing that it cannot be reversed with medication but can be managed with a healthy lifestyle, good habits, and a positive mindset.

Obasanjo made these remarks while delivering a keynote lecture at the Elders’ Forum Meeting organized by the Chief Tony Anenih Geriatric Centre, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.

The event focused on improving the lifestyle and well-being of Nigeria’s ageing population.

“Ageing is inevitable and should not be feared,” Obasanjo said. “Nobody should scare you with the idea of death. Ageing does not mean you must lose your teeth or your dignity. In fact, grey hair should be seen as a crown of honor.”

The former president urged senior citizens to take proactive steps toward healthy ageing by eating nutritious foods, getting adequate rest, undergoing regular medical checkups, staying mentally active, maintaining social interactions, and exercising regularly.

READ ALSO: Obasanjo urges urgent fight against poverty, cites China’s success as model for Africa

Obasanjo, who has been living with diabetes for nearly four decades, stressed the importance of early detection and proper disease management.

“There is no drug that cures diabetes, but it can be managed. I was diagnosed almost 40 years ago, and I’m still here. Many have died within five years of diagnosis because they didn’t manage it well. Regular checkups are vital for catching health issues early,” he said.

He emphasized that twice-yearly health screenings are crucial for seniors to prevent disease complications and ensure better quality of life. “No disease is unmanageable if detected early. That is why regular checkups should be part of the lifestyle of every elderly person,” he added.

Obasanjo also addressed issues surrounding food and nutrition, warning that while food is essential, a poorly planned diet can become harmful. “The type of food we eat, how we eat it, and what we combine matter as much as the quantity. Fruits and vegetables should be a daily part of our meals,” he advised.

He encouraged the elderly to be safety-conscious, particularly within their homes. He noted that many aged individuals die from preventable domestic accidents. “Plan for old age — from financial savings to having a safe house. A lot of elders die from falls, especially in the bathroom,” he cautioned.

Highlighting the value of traditional remedies, Obasanjo revealed that he personally boosts his immunity using medicinal herbs, a practice he said can be safe if done under medical guidance.

“Bitter kola and kola nut are natural stimulants. I use a herbal concoction containing neem, pawpaw leaf, lime, ginger, garlic, turmeric, and more. I boil them, store the mixture in the fridge, and sweeten it with honey before drinking,” he explained.

He also underscored the importance of brain-stimulating activities, maintaining a healthy weight, and sustaining positive social connections. “Elders must engage their minds, avoid stress, and stay connected to family and community. Social interaction is a medicine in itself,” he said.

Earlier, the Chief Medical Director of UCH, Professor Jesse Otegbayo, represented by the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Dr. Abiodun Adeoye, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of the forum in promoting senior health. He praised Chief Obasanjo as the ideal speaker, given his mental acuity and physical vitality at an advanced age.

“Chief Obasanjo is a living testament to graceful ageing. His knowledge, experience, and lifestyle provide a roadmap for the elderly on how to live meaningfully and healthily,” Otegbayo said.

The Elders’ Forum Meeting drew participants from across the country and served as an avenue for older adults to learn, share, and embrace strategies for a more fulfilling and healthy later life.