Former Nigeria international and renowned columnist, Dr. Segun Odegbami, has announced that he will be taking a two-week break from all work activities on the instruction of his children, in order to prioritise his health and wellbeing.

Odegbami has been a consistent advocate for the health of Nigerian sportsmen and women—often giving personal support and publicising the plight of those battling health challenges to attract both public and government attention.

His decision to take time off, therefore, reflects the same values he has long championed, showing that he is leading by example on the importance of living healthy.

Why Odegbami Is Taking a Break

In a message to Completesports.com, the former Green Eagles captain explained:

“The past two days have been so stressful with work, and no break for me at all. My children have decided that I take a two weeks break from all work. I am now effectively under ‘house arrest’ in the home of one of them in the UK, barred from any work,” the Segun Odegbami International College and Sports Academy (SO A), and Eagle7 Sports Radio 103.7 FM Chairman stated.

He further admitted that although it was difficult to step away from his commitments, his children were acting in his best interest.

“They are doing this for my own good. I guess they are right. Should anything happen to me the world will simply just go on as if I never existed. So, kindly allow me a two-weeks break from any further work to enable me check my health status and recharge my ‘batteries’,” Odegbami stated.

Living by Example

For someone who has consistently waded into the health concerns of ex-internationals and other Nigerian athletes, Odegbami’s decision to take time off underscores his long-held view that sportsmen, like everyone else, must embrace healthy living.

The 1980 AFCON winner is expected to return to his regular column– every Saturday – after the short holiday.