I Was 25% Deaf Without Realizing It – Obasanjo
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed that he once experienced a 25% hearing loss without being aware of it. Obasanjo shared this during his visit to the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleiman-Adamu, on Sunday.
He explained that many people around the world may suffer from partial deafness without realizing it until they undergo medical tests for their hearing. Recounting his experience, Obasanjo said he was abroad when he noticed difficulty in hearing someone speak. Despite initially thinking nothing was wrong, the individual insisted on examining his ears.
To his surprise, a clinical analysis revealed that he had a 25% hearing loss. Following his diagnosis, Obasanjo asked the specialist to check his Chief Security Officer, who turned out to have an even greater level of hearing impairment.
This experience, according to the former president, inspired the creation of the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation, which has since partnered with the Starkey Hearing Foundation to provide ear treatment and hearing aids to thousands of Nigerians.
Obasanjo announced that he would soon launch a campaign to distribute hearing aids to about 10,000 people in the North-East, beginning with 2,000 beneficiaries in Bauchi State. The initiative, titled “Sound Intervention Mission So Nigerians May Hear,” will be managed by his foundation.
He also emphasized the need for collective efforts to address the country’s security challenges. In response, Emir Suleiman-Adamu praised Obasanjo’s dedication to the development of all regions of Nigeria, noting that his visit underscores his commitment to national progress.
Obasanjo was welcomed by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, former Governor Adamu Mu’azu, Senator Abdul Ningi, and other senior government officials.