By Rukayat Moisemhe
The Managing Director of Iwosan Wellness Centre, Dr Oluwatomi Kogo, has urged Nigerian leaders not to neglect their health while pursuing innovation, strategy and governance.
Kogo gave the advice at a dinner organised by the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIOD) with the theme: “Leadership and Wellness: Balancing Success and Wellbeing”.
The event held on Thursday in Lagos.
She said that, in the average, Nigeria was about 20 years below global life expectancy at 53.9 years against the global rate of 73.4 years.
The medical director said that the single largest percentage of death in Nigeria was from non-communicable diseases such as heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, cancer and other cardiovascular diseases.
She said that the percentage of death was 74.
Kogo said that some of the common causes of non communicable diseases were smoking, sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, obesity, stress and harmful use of alcohol.
“We are contributing to the rise in non-communicable diseases by generally being reactivity instead of proactivity, and taking the easy way out, of popping pills, instead of lifestyle modification,” she said.
She listed other contributing factors to include preference for animal-based nutrition, sedentary lifestyle, fast meals because of work pressure, and belief that the fat child is the one ‘enjoying life’.
“Leaders and directors are busy juggling multiple demanding responsibilities and ending up neglecting personal well-being
“They sacrifice sleep, exercise and quality time with loved ones which is very important for wellness.
“The way forward is to adopt a good plant-based nutrition, reduce animal protein consumption to once or twice a week, get enough rest and restorative sleep, exercise, spend quality time with loved ones, and have a good mindset on your journey to extreme health,” she said.
In his remarks, Alhaji Tijjani Borodo, President of CIoD, said that the event’s theme reflected a crucial shift in the country’s corporate landscape.
According to him, gone are the days when relentless pursuit of results overshadowed the well-being of leaders and their teams.
“True success hinges on a balanced approach, where strong leadership fuels growth while prioritising the health and happiness of those driving it.
“As directors, we are often at the forefront of innovation, strategy and governance.
“Yet, amidst these responsibilities, it is easy to overlook the importance of our health and well-being.
Edited by Ijeoma Popoola
