Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has advised Dayo Israel, the newly appointed Chairman of the Board of Management at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, to brace for challenges and be prepared to make tough decisions, even if it means stepping on toes, to ensure a successful tenure.
Obasanjo pointed out that no effective leader he has encountered has ever succeeded without making difficult decisions. “If you’re doing a job and you’re not stepping on toes, then you’re not effective,” he emphasized.
According to a statement from the hospital’s Head of Public Relations, Dr. Segun Orisajo, Obasanjo shared these insights while hosting Dr. Israel, who visited him with the hospital’s Medical Director, Prof. Adewale Musa-Olomu, and other members of the management team.
Recalling a personal experience, Obasanjo revealed that he once dismissed his own daughter from his farm for arriving late to work, highlighting his commitment to discipline and effective leadership.
“Shortly after I left Office as Head of State, my first daughter, then at University of Ibadan studying Veterinary Medicine was engaged on my farm to gain some practical experience during long vacation.
“On day one , she resumed a quarter past seven in the morning as against the usual 7 O’clock. I warned her, reminding her that she has an obligation to be of good example to other workers. I told her I will 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?”
Chief Obasajo however advised the new Chairman to be ” just, fair and humane” even when it became obvious that certain toes have to be stepped on.
He applauded the Medical Director Prof Musa-Olomu for the monumental achievements of his administration over the past seven and half years at the Centre.
Earlier, the FMCA Board Chairman, Dr Israel had described Baba Obasanjo as an international Colossus, full of wisdom and wits.
“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.”
The Chairman reiterated his lofty ambition of transforming the Centre into a world class health institution where people from far and near will visit the Centre to receive comprehensive medical care.
The Chairman also reiterated his commitment to supporting the hospital management in advancing “FMC Abeokuta to the next level,” attracting necessary equipment, and fostering relationships for long-term sustainability.
“My first priority is to help move us away from the national grid and transition to renewable energy. We are open to partnerships,” the Chairman added.
In addition to his meeting with the former President, the Chairman’s familiarization tour included visits to the Palaces of the Alake, Osile, and Olowu, where the royal fathers offered their blessings and prayers for a successful tenure.
The Chairman also paid a visit to Dr. John Ade Abolurin, the former Commandant General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
