Former President Shares Secret Behind His Fitness At 89 During Golf Tournament In Abeokuta
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed that he has been living with diabetes for more than 40 years, stressing that healthy eating, regular exercise, medical check-ups and contentment have helped him remain active and strong despite his age.
Obasanjo made the disclosure on Saturday after performing the ceremonial tee-off at the 2026 FirstBank/OBJ Golf Tournament held at the Abeokuta Golf Club in Ogun State.
The former president, who described himself as “officially 89 years old,” said that aside from divine grace, his commitment to healthy living and disciplined habits had played a major role in helping him stay fit while managing diabetes for decades.
Speaking at the event, Obasanjo advised Nigerians to take their health seriously by paying attention to their lifestyle, diet and physical fitness, especially as they grow older.
According to him, exercise becomes even more important at old age, warning that many people neglect their health until serious medical problems develop.
The former president explained that he personally follows a lifestyle principle he calls “DREAMS + C,” which he said has guided him in maintaining physical and mental well-being over the years.
Obasanjo broke down the acronym by explaining that “D” stands for diet, stressing the importance of eating healthy foods, while “R” represents rest and the need for adequate relaxation.
He further explained that “E” stands for exercise, encouraging people to remain physically active through regular workouts and sports activities.
According to him, “M” refers to medical care, emphasising the importance of regular health check-ups and taking prescribed medications when necessary.
The former president also noted that “S” stands for social interaction, adding that maintaining relationships and spending time with people are essential parts of healthy living.
He explained that this belief influenced his decision to establish a Senior Citizens Club at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, where membership is reserved for people aged 70 and above.
Obasanjo added that the final letter, “C,” stands for contentment, urging people to avoid unhealthy desperation and unrealistic ambitions while still pursuing meaningful goals in life.
He stressed that being content does not mean people should stop being ambitious, but rather that they should pursue success responsibly without damaging their peace and well-being.
The former president also commended FirstBank for continuously sponsoring the golf tournament organised in his honour over the past eight years, describing the competition as an event that promotes unity, friendship and national cohesion.
Speaking during the event, the Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Group, Olusegun Alebiosu, praised participants for their discipline, integrity and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
According to him, golf is more than just a game because it teaches focus, patience, character and self-discipline while helping people build strong relationships.
Alebiosu stated that every golfer becomes better through consistency, practice and commitment to excellence, adding that the tournament continues to raise standards in Nigerian golf.
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of Abeokuta Golf Club and Chairman of the tournament’s organising committee, Oladele Adeniran, said the competition was organised to honour Obasanjo’s contributions to Nigeria and Africa.
Adeniran also challenged the belief that golf is only meant for wealthy people, insisting that the sport is open to everyone regardless of background.
He explained that many successful professional golfers started as caddies before gradually developing their skills and building careers in the sport.
According to him, golf is also flexible because people can play individually and at convenient times before or after work while still enjoying health benefits from physical movement on the course.
He disclosed that the tournament featured some of Nigeria’s top professional golfers, including Francis Ekpeyong, who emerged winner of the professional category, alongside other notable players such as Sunday Olapade and veteran golfer Nojim Shofela.
Adeniran added that about 176 amateur golfers were expected to participate in the competition as activities continued at the Abeokuta Golf Club.
