Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has revealed that he has been living with diabetes since 1996, saying decades of managing the condition have given him a deeper understanding of his health.
Kosoko made the disclosure during an episode of the Talk to B Show, where he spoke about his health, personal losses, acting career, parenting and the influence of social media.
“I have been diabetic since 1996; I have been managing it. I understand my health better than some doctors do. Do not misquote me. I am not saying I know how to do everything; I do not want to die,” the actor said.
The veteran actor also recounted the loss of three wives, including the mother of his daughter, Bidemi Kosoko, who died during childbirth.
“I lost my wife during childbirth; that’s Bidemi’s mother. I have lost three wives,” he said.
Reflecting on his decades in the entertainment industry, Kosoko said he began acting in theatre at the age of 10 in 1964 before establishing his own theatre group in 1972.
“I make bold to say that I am one of the pioneers of this industry,” he said.
Kosoko, who has remained a prominent figure in Nollywood, also advised parents to treat their children equally and ensure that each child feels loved and valued.
“Treat your children equally; let them know they’re equal in your mind,” he said.
On social media, the actor recalled the apprehension that greeted the emergence of the platforms but noted that many people had since learnt to use them to their advantage.
He, however, criticised the pursuit of online attention and money through certain forms of content, questioning whether people needed to engage in such practices to make a living.
“Must you shake your bumbum and talk about jargon before you make money?” he asked.
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