How lifestyle changes can prolong human lives

A renowned Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Dr Ibrahim Wada, has predicted that humans will live up to 200 years in the next 40 years.

Wada, who is the Founder of Nisa Medical Group, Abuja, made this prediction during the Second Nimi Dimkpa Briggs Legacy Lecture Series, held at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT).

The lecture series, which is in honour of Briggs, brought together distinguished scholars and seekers of wisdom to ponder on the fundamental question of human existence: “The Longevity of Man.”

Speaking on the topic, Wada explained that human life is coded with hormones and genes, but lifestyle can protect the life code or expose the code to being corrupted by viruses.

He noted that advances in life sciences have made it possible to understand and manipulate the codes in human genes that determine longevity, through recreating stem cell from one’s gene and reintroducing it to one’s body to regenerate the dead cell.

According to him, “Life science has developed to a stage where one can understand all those codes and even manipulate some to achieve longevity.”

Wada, however, lamented that such advanced healthcare services are not yet available in Nigeria. Wada emphasised the importance of healthcare services, medical check-ups, and lifestyle changes in achieving longevity.

He advised that people should adapt to changing times and prioritise their health by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest.

“The brain is always active, and when it’s time to rest, you must rest the brain, no compromise,” Wada said.

“Those are the elements that will make you live very long.”

UNIPORT Vice Chancellor, Prof Owunari Georgewill, reflected on the life and legacy of the late Briggs, who served as the 5th Vice Chancellor of UNIPORT and described him as a man who left an indelible mark on the institution and the nation, through his wisdom, philanthropy, and sacrifices.

Georgewill posed a thought-provoking question, asking if longevity is merely a measure of biological persistence or if it encompasses something far more profound.

He drew on philosophical arguments that existence is about survival or significance, and that purpose is the weight of days. “It is not the breath we take, but the fire we ignite,” Georgewill said, quoting a phrase that encapsulates the essence of longevity.

“As we gather to honour the memory of Briggs, let us reflect on the significance of our existence and the impact we want to leave on the world,” he said.

The Chair of the Second Legacy Lecture Series, Prof Ngozi Orazulike, described the occasion as a celebration of Briggs’ outstanding achievements and legacy.

She praised Briggs’ multifaceted career, describing him as a doctor, teacher, researcher, mentor, and philanthropist, who rendered services that changed his community, noting that the medical profession held him in high esteem and that his legacy continues to inspire successive generations.

While reacting to the glowing words poured his late father, the son of Briggs, Nina Briggs, said: “It is a humbling experience that years after someone has passed away, he is still being held in such honour, and esteem, where events are being organised to remember your contribution to the university community and humanity at large, I think it is an encouraging sign that is worthy of emulation.”