Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has shared how he dismissed his daughter from his farm job due to lateness, emphasizing the importance of discipline and punctuality.
Speaking at his residence in Abeokuta while receiving the new Chairman of the Board of Management of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi-Aba, Dr. Dayo Israel, Obasanjo explained that his decision sent a strong message to his employees, reinforcing the value of accountability.
He recalled that after stepping down as Nigeria’s Head of State, his daughter, who was studying Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan, joined his farm for 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 to be punctual and set a good example for others. However, when she came late again the next day, I did not hesitate to send her back home from the gate,” he recounted.
Obasanjo noted that his firm stance had a significant impact on his workers, who realized that if he could discipline his daughter, no one was above the rules.
Encouraging Dr. Israel to be firm in his new role, Obasanjo stressed that effective leadership often requires stepping on toes.
Dr. Israel, accompanied by FMC Medical Director Prof. Adewale Musa-Olomu and other officials, praised Obasanjo’s leadership qualities, describing him as an international statesman known for his wisdom and principles.
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