The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) on Tuesday inducted 51 newly qualified doctors from Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State, into the medical profession.
Dr. Fatima Kyari, the Registrar of the Council, who administered the Hippocratic Oath to the inductees, urged them to uphold the ethical standards of the profession.
Kyari, represented by the former Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Prof. Eugene Okpere, emphasized that the council would not hesitate to sanction any practitioner found negligent in their professional duties.
“Ensure you pay your practicing dues promptly, respect your senior colleagues, and secure medical insurance,” she said.
Earlier, Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, addressed the inductees at the 19th oath-taking and induction ceremony. He highlighted that the new doctors were the product of years of rigorous study, and the ceremony marked the beginning of their journey into the field of medicine.
He noted that the “David Class,” as the set is called, was joining the ranks of over 3,000 medical doctors produced by the College of Health Sciences of the institution.
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“At today’s induction, a total of 51 medical doctors, who have been found worthy in character and learning, will be inducted. This aligns with the University’s unwavering commitment to excellence in producing top-grade medical professionals to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system, which is currently in dire need of support,” Ezemonye said.
“The world faces numerous healthcare challenges, from emerging diseases to the increasing burden of chronic illnesses. I am confident that you, the inductees, will rise to the occasion and contribute significantly to the health and well-being of your communities and society at large,” he added.
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He urged the inductees to remember their Hippocratic Oath and the guiding principles that have shaped the practice of medicine for centuries.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, “The oath reminds you of your duty to preserve life, alleviate suffering, and treat all patients with compassion and respect. Igbinedion University has always been a beacon of excellence in education, and you are a testament to that tradition.
“We remain committed to championing a higher education revolution in Nigeria through innovation, entrepreneurship, and bespoke research, in line with the University’s motto: Knowledge and Excellence.”
He added, “We pride ourselves on our smart campus, centers of excellence, cosmopolitan, future-ready graduates, world-class professionals, fully accredited programs, and the internationalization of our pedagogical profile.
“As you step beyond this auditorium, remember the values instilled in you — compassion, integrity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. These are the pillars that will support you in your practice and in every life you touch.”
Dr. (Mrs.) Imesidayo Eboreime-Oikeh, Dean of the School of Clinical Medicine, congratulated the new doctors, stating that medicine is a lifelong journey of learning, service, and compassion.
“Your success as physicians will not be measured solely by the diseases you treat but by the humanity you bring to your work,” she emphasized.
In his induction lecture, Prof. King-David Terna Yawe lamented the current state of the healthcare system but urged the inductees to adopt a habit of continuous learning.
“Continue learning by unlearning and relearning, read, attend scientific meetings, and embrace the spirit of entrepreneurship. It is not limited to individual or group medical practice, but also includes locum tenens,” he advised.
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