Renowned Nigerian disc jockey, Oluwaforijimi Amu, popularly known as DJ Jimmy Jatt, recently shared a deeply personal and emotional account of his health struggles during an appearance on Channels TV’s Rubbin’ Minds, hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu. The celebrated DJ revealed that he lost his sight in 2020, and his health challenges continued when he was later diagnosed with chronic kidney disease following a surgery to restore his vision.
A DJ Legend and His Journey
DJ Jimmy Jatt is one of Nigeria’s most respected and iconic disc jockeys. His career spans over three decades, and he has played an integral role in shaping the Nigerian music scene. Known for his exceptional mixing skills, Jatt made his name in the 1990s and early 2000s, bringing hip hop and contemporary Nigerian music to the forefront. He became a pioneer in the industry and a household name through his groundbreaking work on the popular Jimmy’s Jump Off mix series and collaborations with some of Nigeria’s top artists.
His relentless work ethic and passion for music helped him become one of the first Nigerian DJs to gain recognition internationally. DJ Jimmy Jatt’s influence extends beyond the turntables—he has been a mentor and a key figure in promoting new talent in the Nigerian entertainment industry. From live shows to radio gigs, he’s earned a reputation as one of the best in the game.
A Turning Point: Health Struggles and the 2020 Crisis
However, in 2020, DJ Jimmy Jatt’s life took an unexpected and challenging turn. During his Rubbin’ Minds interview, he shared that his health issues started after he decided to step out of his comfort zone and travel more. “I had lived all my life in Lagos, but in 2019, I decided it was time to explore the world—Europe, America, everywhere,” he said. He believed a change in environment would benefit him, both personally and professionally.
However, things took a sharp turn in 2020 when the global pandemic hit, and travel restrictions forced him to remain in Nigeria. This was the beginning of his serious health problems. DJ Jimmy Jatt described how, unexpectedly, he lost his sight, which led to a major surgery to restore his vision. Though the procedure was successful, his health journey was far from over.
After recovering from the surgery, he relocated to the United States, still determined to continue his plans of exploring life abroad. But this move led to an unexpected diagnosis—chronic kidney disease. DJ Jimmy Jatt did not disclose the exact cause of the kidney issues, but experts suggest that they could be linked to a combination of lifestyle factors, including diet, stress, and possibly his medical history.
Chronic kidney disease is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their function over time. The condition can be influenced by several factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and excessive use of certain medications. Though DJ Jimmy Jatt has not provided specific details about what caused his kidney issues, the stress and strain of balancing a high-profile career with health challenges could have played a role in his diagnosis.
Resilience and Recovery
Despite these difficult health challenges, DJ Jimmy Jatt’s resilience and positivity remain unwavering. His story is one of determination and strength. He’s not only a legend in the entertainment industry but also a testament to overcoming life’s toughest battles. While dealing with blindness and kidney disease, Jatt’s decision to share his journey with his fans and the public is meant to inspire others who may be facing their own struggles.
During the interview, DJ Jimmy Jatt emphasized the importance of taking care of oneself, both physically and mentally, especially in the face of overwhelming challenges. He’s now focused on his health and recovery, continuing to stay active in the music industry while also advocating for better awareness around health issues.