Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has advised the newly appointed Chairman of the Board of Management of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Dr. Dayo Israel, to brace for the challenges ahead and be prepared to make tough decisions, even if it means stepping on toes.
Speaking while receiving Dr. Israel and the hospital’s management team at his residence, Obasanjo emphasized that effective leadership demands making difficult choices.
“If you’re doing a job and you’re not stepping on toes, then you’re not effective,” he stated.
The former president’s remarks were contained in a statement by the hospital’s Head of Public Relations, Dr. Segun Orisajo, detailing the visit led by the Centre’s Medical Director, Prof. Adewale Musa-Olomu.
Obasanjo also recounted a personal experience to highlight the importance of discipline in leadership. He narrated how, after leaving office as Head of State, he dismissed his own daughter from his farm for repeatedly arriving late to work.
“Shortly after I left office, my first daughter, who was studying Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan, joined my farm for practical experience during her long vacation,” he recalled.
“On the first day, she arrived at 7:15 a.m. instead of the designated 7:00 a.m. I warned her, reminding her of the need to set an example. But the next day, she was late again. Right from the gate, I sent her back.”
He noted that his action sent a strong message to his employees, making them realize that he upheld discipline, even with his own family.
While urging Dr. Israel to be firm and decisive, Obasanjo also advised him to be fair and humane in handling affairs at the medical centre.
“You must be just, fair, and humane, even when stepping on toes becomes necessary,” he said.
The former president also commended Prof. Musa-Olomu for his contributions to the hospital over the past seven and a half years, acknowledging his leadership and developmental strides.
In his remarks, Dr. Israel expressed admiration for Obasanjo, describing him as an international figure with deep wisdom.
“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 said.
He reiterated his commitment to transforming FMC Abeokuta into a world-class health institution that would attract patients from across the country and beyond.
“My first priority is to transition the hospital from the national grid to renewable energy. We are open to partnerships that will help us achieve this goal,” he added.
As part of his familiarization visits, Dr. Israel also met with prominent traditional rulers, including the Alake of Egbaland, the Osile of Oke-Ona, and the Olowu of Owu, who offered prayers for a successful tenure.
Additionally, he visited former Commandant-General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. John Ade Abolurin, in continuation of his engagement with key stakeholders.
