Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has said he will “never stop having children,” explaining that the continuity of life extends beyond direct parenthood to future generations.
Obasanjo made the remark on Monday while hosting the leadership of the Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN), led by its President, Dr. Ekanem Ekure, at his residence within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
He noted that although he no longer gives birth and his children are now adults, the cycle of life continues through his grandchildren and succeeding generations.
“I am no more giving birth to children and my children are now adults. But my children are still having children and my grandchildren are having children, so I will never stop having children,” Obasanjo said.
He added that the process is unending, stressing that generational continuity places a lifelong responsibility on society to protect and care for children.
“Because when I stopped, my children will not stop, and when my children stopped, my grandchildren will not stop. The cycle continues,” he stated.
The former president emphasised that the future of any nation depends on how well children are protected, describing them as the foundation of every civilisation. He called for improved child care, survival, and development across the country.
Obasanjo also commended paediatricians for their crucial role in saving children’s lives, describing paediatrics as a unique and demanding medical specialty.
He pledged to support initiatives aimed at improving the wellbeing of children in Nigeria and globally, and accepted PAN’s request for him to serve as an advocate for child health and wellness.
“Children are not like adults. They cannot always explain what they are feeling, so your area of specialisation is very unique,” he said, assuring PAN of his commitment to the cause.
Earlier, Dr. Ekure described Obasanjo as a respected global statesman, noting that PAN sought his support due to the growing challenges facing child health in Nigeria.
