FORMER Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has recalled how he dismissed his daughter from his farm due to lateness.
Obasanjo explained that the decision had a profound impact on his employees, who reacted by saying, “If Baba could do this to his daughter, who are we?”
He shared this experience while hosting the new Chairman of the Board of Management of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Idi-Aba, Dr. Dayo Israel, at his Penthouse residence within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Dr. Israel was accompanied by FMC Abeokuta’s Medical Director, Prof. Adewale Musa-Olomu, and members of his management team.
Obasanjo advised Dr. Israel to be prepared for the challenges ahead and to make tough decisions when necessary, stating, “No leader of note I have ever come across achieved success without stepping on toes.”
According to a statement by FMC’s Head of Public Relations, Dr. Segun Orisajo, Obasanjo recounted an incident involving his daughter:
*”Shortly after I left office as Head of State, my first daughter, then a student at the University of Ibadan studying Veterinary Medicine, was engaged on my farm to gain practical experience during her long vacation. On her first day, she arrived at 7:15 a.m. instead of the usual 7:00 a.m. I warned her, reminding her of the importance of setting a good example for other workers. I also made it clear that I would not hesitate to take action if it happened again.
To my amazement, she was late the following day. I did not hesitate to send her back right from the gate.”*
This action, he noted, reinforced discipline among his employees, who recognised the seriousness of punctuality under his leadership.
Earlier, Dr. Israel described Obasanjo as an international figure full of wisdom and insight. He expressed gratitude for the meeting, saying, “Meeting Baba Obasanjo is always so much fun. As we embark on this journey of transformation at FMC Abeokuta, Baba’s wisdom and experience are invaluable.”
