Former President Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday flagged off the groundbreaking 'Lagos to the World' expedition, a global road journey aimed at raising awareness about early detection of cancer. The launch took place at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State, in collaboration with Zuri Health, AXA Mansard Insurance, and BMW Club Nigeria.
Initiative Inspired by Personal Loss
The initiative was conceived by entrepreneur and BMW enthusiast Erik Nwagwu in memory of his late mother, Prof. Helen Nwagwu, and his late sister, Mrs. Onyema Fern Eseka, both of whom lost their lives to cancer.
Speaking at the event, Obasanjo commended Nwagwu for transforming personal tragedy into a platform for public awareness and advocacy. He reiterated the need for Nigerians to undergo regular medical check-ups and screening to ensure early detection and management of ailments such as cancer, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases that pose a threat to healthy living.
'What you are now doing in remembrance of your mother and your sister is worthy of commendation,' the former president said. '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.'
Healthy Living and the DREAMS Approach
The elder statesman also used the occasion to stress the importance of healthy living and regular medical screening, citing his own experience managing diabetes for more than 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 said.
Obasanjo emphasized what he described as the 'DREAMS' approach to healthy living — Diet, Rest, Exercise, and Medical Screening — noting that early detection remains one of the most effective tools in combating life-threatening illnesses. He urged Nigerians, particularly senior citizens, to take regular medical tests seriously, stressing that many diseases can be effectively treated when detected early.
Three-Phase Global Expedition
Speaking with journalists after the ceremony, Nwagwu explained that the 'Lagos to the World' expedition will be executed in three phases. According to him, the first leg will take him from Lagos to Accra, Ghana, before returning to Nigeria. The second phase will cover a journey to Senegal and back, while the final stage, scheduled for next year, will see him embark on a full circumnavigation of the globe.
'The journey will take us through West Africa, North Africa, Europe, Asia, North America, Central America and South America. From there, the vehicle will be shipped to Australia before continuing to South Africa and eventually returning to Lagos,' he said.
Focus on Prostate Cancer
Nwagwu said aside from commemorating his late mother and sister, the expedition seeks to address the growing threat 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 is providing free prostate cancer screenings alongside blood sugar checks, blood pressure monitoring, and Body Mass Index (BMI) assessments. He revealed that the initiative has already conducted a screening programme in Lagos and plans a larger exercise in Accra on June 6, followed by additional screenings during subsequent legs of the journey.
'One of our major goals is awareness. Many men above 40 have never taken a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test. The reality is that prostate cancer is highly treatable when detected early, sometimes even before symptoms appear,' he added.
Promoting a Positive Image of Nigeria
Nwagwu also said the expedition aims to promote a positive image of Nigeria and strengthen conversations around African economic and cultural integration. '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.
He noted that the initiative will combine adventure, advocacy, and health outreach, delivering critical cancer awareness messages across multiple countries while promoting a vision of a healthier and more connected Africa.
