Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has shared that he experienced a 25% hearing loss without initially being aware of it. He disclosed this during a visit to the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleiman-Adamu, in Bauchi on Sunday.
Obasanjo recounted a particular incident while abroad when he had difficulty hearing someone speaking to him. Despite his insistence that his hearing was fine, the individual asked for permission to check his ears. A subsequent clinical analysis revealed his hearing impairment. In a light-hearted moment, he mentioned that when he asked for his Chief Security Officer to be checked, it turned out that the officer had even more significant hearing issues.
This personal experience inspired Obasanjo to establish the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation, which has since partnered with the Starkey Hearing Foundation to provide ear treatment and hearing aids to thousands of Nigerians. He announced plans to distribute hearing aids to approximately 10,000 indigent individuals in the Northeast, starting with 2,000 beneficiaries in Bauchi State. This initiative, dubbed the “Sound Intervention Mission so Nigerians may hear,” will be implemented under the auspices of his foundation.
During his visit, Obasanjo emphasized the importance of collective effort in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges. Emir Suleiman-Adamu acknowledged Obasanjo’s commitment to the development and progress of all regions in Nigeria, underscoring the former president’s enduring influence and dedication to public service.
Obasanjo was warmly received by Governor Bala Mohammed, former Governor Adamu Mu’azu, Senator Abdul Ningi, and other prominent officials during his visit.