In an insightful and candid exchange, former President Olusegun Obasanjo has delivered a powerful message to Dr. Dayo Israel, the newly appointed Chairman of the Board of Management at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Idi-Aba, Abeokuta: prepare for the challenges ahead, and if necessary, step on toes to get the job done.
Obasanjo, who has long been known for his direct approach to leadership, told Dr. Israel that effective leadership often requires making tough decisions, even if they upset others. “If you’re doing a job and you’re not stepping on toes, then you’re not effective,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of taking bold actions to drive change.
The former president’s words were delivered during a courtesy visit from Dr. Israel, alongside FMC Abeokuta’s Medical Director, Prof. Adewale Musa-Olomu, and members of the hospital’s management team. Obasanjo, known for his no-nonsense leadership, shared a personal story from decades ago to illustrate his point. He recalled an incident soon after leaving office as Head of State when he had to fire his own daughter from his farm for being late to work, despite her familial connection.
“My first daughter, then studying Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan, was working on my farm during her vacation. One morning, she showed up at 7:15 AM instead of 7:00 AM, and I warned her. The next day, she was late again, and I didn’t hesitate to send her home,” Obasanjo shared. “The impact was profound. If I could take such a stand with my own daughter, the rest of the staff knew they had to follow the rules.”
The former president’s tough love message was clear: leadership requires consistency and a willingness to make difficult decisions, even if it means stepping on a few toes along the way. But Obasanjo also emphasized that true leadership must be “just, fair, and humane” — principles that should guide any tough actions.
Dr. Israel, who has ambitious plans for FMC Abeokuta, expressed deep admiration for Obasanjo’s wisdom. Referring to the former president as an “international colossus,” Israel said, “Meeting Baba Obasanjo is always so much fun. As we begin this journey of transformation at FMC Abeokuta, his wisdom and experience are invaluable.”
Israel’s vision for the hospital is nothing short of transformative. He spoke of his goal to turn FMC Abeokuta into a world-class health institution, attracting people from far and wide for comprehensive medical care. He also revealed plans to help the hospital move away from reliance on the national power grid, with an emphasis on renewable energy. “We’re open to partnerships to make this a reality,” he affirmed.
The Chairman’s familiarization tour also saw him visiting the palaces of Alake, Osile, and Olowu, where he received blessings and prayers for a successful tenure. He also paid a visit to Dr. John Ade Abolurin, the former Commandant General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as part of his efforts to forge important relationships for the hospital’s future.
As Dr. Dayo Israel embarks on this new journey at FMC Abeokuta, he carries with him not just the guidance of a seasoned leader like Obasanjo, but also a clear mandate to transform the institution and push it toward new heights. The road ahead may not be easy, but with determination and the right leadership, the possibilities for FMC Abeokuta are boundless.
