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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed that he once sent his first daughter back from his farm for arriving late to work, emphasising the need for discipline and accountability in leadership.
Obasanjo spoke on Sunday while receiving the newly appointed Chairman of the Board of Management of the Federal Medical Centre, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Dr Dayo Israel, who was on a familiarisation visit.
According to a statement by the hospital’s Head of Public Relations, Dr Segun Orisajo, Obasanjo urged Israel to be firm in his new role, stressing that effective leadership often requires stepping on toes.
Obasanjo said, “Shortly after I left office as the military Head of State, my first daughter, then at the University of Ibadan studying Veterinary Medicine, was engaged on my farm to gain some practical experience during the long vacation.
“On day one, she resumed a quarter past seven in the morning as against the usual 7am. I warned her, reminding her that she has an obligation to be a good example to other workers. I told her I would not hesitate to wield the big stick should the same be repeated going forward.
“To my amazement, the following day she was late to work again. I did not hesitate to send her back right from the gate.
“Not surprisingly, this had an indescribable effect on all my employees, saying if Baba could do this to his daughter, who are we?”
The new FMC Board Chairman was accompanied by the Medical Director of the hospital, Prof Adewale Musa-Olomu, and members of his management team.
The former President advised the new chairman to be “just, fair and humane” even when it became obvious that certain toes had to be stepped on.
He applauded Musa-Olomu’s leadership for the monumental achievements of his administration over the past seven and half years at the hospital.
Israel described Obasanjo as a leader full of wisdom, adding that his insights would be invaluable in his mission to transform FMC Abeokuta into a world-class health institution.
He said, “Meeting Baba Obasanjo is always so much fun. As we begin this journey of transformation at FMC Abeokuta, Baba’s wisdom and experience are invaluable.”
He also renewed his determination to support the hospital Management in taking ” FMC Abeokuta to the next level, attracting needed equipment and helping build relationships for sustainability.
“My first priority is to help us move away from the national grid to renewable energy. We are open to partnership.”
As part of his familiarisation tour, Israel also visited the Alake, Osile, and Olowu palaces, where he received royal blessings.
The team also visited the former Commandant General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Dr. Ade Abolurin.
