According to a report by Daily Post on Monday, January 19, 2026, former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on members of the Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN) to remain dedicated and compassionate in their service to children.
He emphasized that paediatricians hold a critical role in society due to their direct responsibility for the health and welfare of young patients.
Obasanjo made these remarks while hosting the executive council of PAN, led by President Dr Ekanem Ekure, in Abeokuta on Monday.
Obasanjo highlighted that the work of paediatricians goes beyond medical treatment, requiring a strong sense of empathy and understanding.
He noted that children often cannot fully express their symptoms or feelings, making the role of the doctor not only medical but also interpretive and supportive. According to him, this dual responsibility makes paediatric care both challenging and essential.
“I will never stop having children because when I stop, my children will not stop, when my children stop, my grandchildren will not stop,” Obasanjo said, underscoring his personal commitment to advocating for children even as his own family has grown. This statement reflects his belief that caring for children is a lifelong responsibility that extends beyond professional duties.
He assured PAN members of his willingness to support and participate in their advocacy programs, Obasanjo described his collaboration with the association as an opportunity to contribute actively to child health initiatives and policies, reinforcing the importance of collective action in promoting the welfare of children across Nigeria.
Obasanjo also stressed the unique position of paediatricians, explaining that their work demands meticulous attention to detail. Doctors must carefully observe and interpret the needs and symptoms of children, many of whom cannot communicate clearly. This responsibility, he said, requires patience, skill, and an ongoing commitment to understanding young patients.
The former president commended PAN for its continuous efforts to improve child health and advocated for consistent engagement in educational and preventive programs.
He emphasized that paediatricians serve not only as medical professionals but also as key advocates for the rights and wellbeing of children.
He encouraged members of the association to continue prioritizing empathy and compassion in their practice. Obasanjo maintained that their work has a lasting impact on the lives of children and the broader society, and he affirmed that supporting such efforts is a duty that everyone, including himself, must uphold.
Obasanjo concluded by reiterating his readiness to actively participate in advocacy initiatives, he highlighted that while his personal children are now grown, his dedication to the welfare of all children remains unwavering, stressing that advocacy for children is a responsibility that transcends age and personal circumstance.
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