Obasanjo Flags Off “Lagos To The World” Expedition On Cancer Awareness In Abeokuta

Obasanjo Flags Off “Lagos to the World” Expedition on Cancer Awareness in Abeokuta Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has officially flagged off the “Lagos to the World” expedition, a global road journey designed to raise awareness on cancer prevention, early detection, and regular health screening, at an event held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The launch ceremony took place at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library OOPL, where Obasanjo commended the initiative’s organiser, a Nigerian entrepreneur and BMW enthusiast, Erik Nwagwu, describing the project as a meaningful effort to transform personal loss into a public health advocacy campaign.The expedition is dedicated to the memory of Nwagwu’s late mother, Prof. Helen Nwagwu, and his late sister, Mrs. Onyema Fern Eseka, both of whom died from cancer. Speaking at the event, Obasanjo emphasized the importance of routine medical screening, noting that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to manage diseases such as cancer and other non communicable illnesses. He encouraged Nigerians, especially older citizens, to adopt consistent health check habits, stressing that many illnesses become manageable when detected early. The former President also referenced his personal experience managing diabetes for over four decades, using it to highlight the importance of lifestyle discipline, regular exercise, and medical monitoring.

Obasanjo further advocated what he described as a holistic wellness approach Diet, Rest, Exercise, Medical screening, and Self awareness DREAMS as a guide for maintaining good health and preventing avoidable complications. He said awareness campaigns such as the “Lagos to the World” expedition were crucial in reaching communities that may not have easy access to formal healthcare services. The “Lagos to the World” initiative is a multi-phase global overland journey that will travel across several countries and continents, combining adventure travel with cancer awareness outreach and community screening activities. Organisers said the expedition is also aimed at promoting prostate cancer awareness and encouraging men to undergo regular medical checks. The project has received support from partners in the health and insurance sectors, reflecting growing private-sector involvement in public health advocacy campaigns in Nigeria.Health advocates have continued to stress the rising burden of cancer and other non-communicable diseases in Nigeria, calling for stronger awareness, improved screening access, and early diagnosis programmes. Events like the Obasanjo-flagged expedition are seen as part of broader efforts to bridge awareness gaps and reduce late-stage cancer detection in the country.