Obasanjo Backs Global Road Expedition To Raise Cancer Awareness

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Sunday flagged off the “Lagos to the World” expedition, a global road journey aimed at raising awareness on cancer prevention, early detection, and African integration.

The launch, held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, attracted health advocates, supporters, and members of the motoring community.

The expedition was conceived by Nigerian entrepreneur and BMW enthusiast, Erik Nwagwu, in memory of his late mother, Professor Helen Nwagwu, and his late sister, Mrs. Onyema Fern Eseka, both of whom died from cancer.

Commending the initiative, Obasanjo praised Nwagwu for turning personal tragedy into a platform for public awareness and advocacy.

“What you are now doing in remembrance of your mother and your sister is worthy of commendation. You lost your mother and sister through the same ailment, and instead of accepting that nothing can be done, you came up with this unique and innovative way of creating awareness and helping others,” he said.

The former president also used the occasion to emphasise the importance of healthy living and regular medical screening, citing his personal experience managing diabetes for over four decades.

“Many diseases that are not curable can be managed. I have lived with diabetes for over 40 years. I play squash three times a week when I am around, watch my diet and ensure I get adequate rest,” he added.

Obasanjo highlighted what he called the “DREAMS” approach to healthy living — Diet, Rest, Exercise, and Medical Screening — noting that early detection remains critical in combating life-threatening diseases.

He urged Nigerians, particularly older citizens, to prioritise routine medical checks, stressing that early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Speaking with journalists, Nwagwu said the “Lagos to the World” expedition would be carried out in three phases.

He explained that the first leg would cover Lagos to Accra, Ghana, before returning to Nigeria, while the second phase would extend to Senegal and back.

The final phase, scheduled for next year, will involve a global circumnavigation across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas, with the vehicle also shipped to Australia before continuing to South Africa and returning to Lagos.

According to him, the initiative also seeks to address rising cases of prostate cancer among African men.

“Prostate cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men in Sub-Saharan Africa, yet many people do not go for routine testing,” he said.

Through a partnership with Zuri Health, the expedition will provide free prostate cancer screening, blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, and BMI assessments across different stops.

Nwagwu said screenings have already begun in Lagos, with a larger exercise scheduled in Accra on June 6, followed by additional outreach programmes along the route.

He added that one of the core goals of the expedition is to improve awareness, especially among men above 40 who have never undergone PSA testing.

He also said the project aims to project a positive image of Nigeria and promote African integration through global engagement.

“The world often hears only negative stories about Nigeria. There are countless Nigerians doing remarkable and positive things every day. This journey is also about changing that narrative and showcasing the best of our people and our continent,” he said.

The “Lagos to the World” expedition is supported by Zuri Health, AXA Mansard Insurance, and BMW Club Nigeria, and combines adventure, advocacy, and public health outreach across multiple countries.