Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has opened up about his three-decade battle with diabetes, saying his determination to stay alive has made him deliberate about managing his health despite the demands of his career and social life.
Kosoko, who disclosed that he was diagnosed with the condition in 1996, said he had continued to take steps to maintain his health because he was not ready to die.
The veteran actor spoke during an interview on the Africa A-List podcast, where he also responded to criticism over his attendance at social gatherings while one of his colleagues was reportedly ill.
According to Kosoko, having a health challenge does not mean he should withdraw from social activities, explaining that he, too, has been living with a long-term medical condition.
“They said someone is sick and Jide Kosoko still went to parties. Why shouldn’t I attend a party?” he asked.
The actor said his experience with diabetes had taught him the importance of taking personal responsibility for his health and following appropriate medical advice.
“I’ve been diabetic since 1996 till date, and I’ve continued to maintain myself because I don’t want to die at all,” he said.
Kosoko also recounted a recent medical experience that left him concerned about his health. He said doctors had recommended a colonoscopy as part of investigations to check for possible signs of cancer.
“They said they wanted to check every part of my body to know if there are any traces of cancer. They put me to sleep. And I almost died,” he said, describing the experience.
He did not provide further details about the circumstances surrounding the procedure or the outcome of the medical investigations.
Beyond sharing his personal experience, the actor urged his colleagues in the entertainment industry to pay greater attention to their health and undergo regular medical check-ups rather than wait until symptoms become severe.
Kosoko’s disclosure highlights the health challenges that can accompany a demanding career, particularly for entertainers whose professional commitments often involve long working hours, public appearances and frequent social engagements.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body regulates blood glucose. Although it requires ongoing management, people living with the condition can reduce the risk of complications through appropriate treatment, monitoring and regular medical care.
The actor’s account also serves as a reminder that people living with chronic illnesses may continue to work and participate in social activities while managing their conditions, although their individual medical needs and circumstances differ.
Kosoko is one of Nigeria’s veteran screen actors, with a career spanning several decades in the Yoruba-language film industry and Nollywood. His latest disclosure offers a glimpse into the personal health challenges behind his enduring presence in the entertainment industry.