The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ilorin (Unilorin) celebrated the graduation and induction of 29 veterinary medical graduates for the 2021/2022 academic session.
In his speech, Professor Wahab Egbewole, the Vice Chancellor of Unilorin, emphasized the importance of maintaining professional integrity and urged the graduates not to disappoint Nigeria in their practice. He urged them to approach their profession with compassion, recognizing that they will be responsible for the well-being of animals who cannot voice their concerns. He reminded them of their duty to provide care that would make their patients happy, while also warning against negligence and the need to be accountable.
Egbewole also encouraged the graduates to continue developing their skills and to leverage technology to enhance their work. However, he cautioned them against abusing the opportunities presented to them.
The Vice Chancellor stated that parents and society have high expectations of the new veterinary doctors, as they have invested a great deal in their education.
Professor Oyebisi Azeez, the Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, highlighted the unique role that veterinarians play in society. She emphasized that they are not only responsible for treating ailments and performing surgeries, but also for understanding the complex connections between animals, humans, and the environment. Azeez acknowledged the power that veterinarians hold to make a real difference in the world by alleviating suffering, promoting animal welfare, and safeguarding public health.
Azeez acknowledged the challenges that the graduates may face in their careers but urged them to remain dedicated, compassionate, and committed to lifelong learning. She emphasized that they would become educators, advocates, and leaders in the field of veterinary medicine.
During the ceremony, Dr Tunde Ifemade, from Animal Care Service Konsult, delivered a keynote address titled “From Healing Heaves to Healthy Harvests: The Inspiring Journey to Tunde Agbato, Veterinarian Extraordinaire.” Ifemade advised the graduates to draw inspiration from the life of Agbato and strive to make a difference in their chosen careers.
AIG Aishatu Abubakar-Baju, the President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, highlighted the council’s 70-year existence and its role in regulating the training and practice of veterinary medicine in Nigeria. She urged the graduates to be exemplary and serve as ambassadors for the profession.
Dr Olutoyin Adetuberu, the President of the Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), emphasized the importance of the veterinary profession as the first line of defense against zoonotic diseases. She reminded the graduates of the noble nature of their profession and encouraged them to carry themselves with dignity.
Overall, the induction ceremony at the University of Ilorin celebrated the achievements of the veterinary medical graduates and highlighted the responsibilities they now hold as professionals in the field.
