What octogenarians must do to live beyond 90 years — Obasanjo

At the 80th birthday celebration of Alhaji Olatunde Badmus in Osogbo, Osun State, former President Olusegun Obasanjo shared valuable insights on achieving longevity, particularly for those in their eighties. Speaking through Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, Obasanjo welcomed Badmus into the 'club of octogenarians' and outlined a regimen for those aspiring to live beyond 90 years.

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By every standard, you are successful in all your endeavours. Your leadership roles in all the businesses you undertook are impressive. In business and outside business, you always make God your partner.

Obasanjo's advice, delivered with his characteristic directness, centers on discipline and health consciousness. He stressed the importance of adequate rest, recommending eight hours of sleep daily. Furthermore, he advocated for a consistent physical activity routine, suggesting one hour of daily exercise, such as walking. Crucially, he advised a restricted eating pattern of only two meals per day. Obasanjo posited that adherence to these rules would ensure "longevity beyond 90 years."

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At the age of 80, let me welcome you to this club. Let me read the rules of the club to you. Number one, your father and mother must not be alive, you must sleep for eight hours every day, you must undertake one hour of daily exercise like walking, and you must eat only twice a day. With obedience to these rules, your admission is registered and your longevity beyond 90 years is assured.

The event was a grand affair, attended by prominent figures including Africa's richest man, Aliko Dangote, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi. Dangote lauded Badmus, the chairman of Tuns Farms Limited, for his dual success in business and his unwavering commitment to his religion, even pledging N100 million towards the launch of a book in Badmus's honor. Dangote also took the opportunity to call for unity and collective effort in nation-building, urging Nigerians to believe in their country and support their leaders.

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I was a young businessman when I met Baba. I want young entrepreneurs, especially students, to learn from this nobleman. I want to launch this book with the sum of N100m.

The Ooni of Ife offered prayers for the celebrant, acknowledging Badmus's significant contributions across various spheres. The gathering served not only to celebrate Badmus's milestone but also to highlight the wisdom and experience of Nigeria's elder statesmen, offering guidance for a healthier and longer life.

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But he has been able to maintain his business and his religion, so I admire and respect him. This made me leave Lagos. I drove for four hours and I am driving four hours back. May God give him long life and continued blessings.