Follow Us on Google
At a time when Nigeria faces a worsening healthcare crisis with a doctor-to-patient ratio as high as 1:4,000, Babcock University has inducted 20 newly qualified medical doctors of the Orion 11 class in a special mop-up ceremony at the Benjamin Carson Sr. College of Health and Medical Sciences’ 600-seater auditorium.
This underscores the institution’s commitment to producing competent professionals to help close the nation’s critical healthcare gap.
Representing the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), Professor Fatima Kyari, Dr. Tijjani Ali Mandaka, Head of the Registration Department and Assistant Registrar at MDCN, described the induction as a defining moment. He urged the inductees to practice with empathy, humility, and respect for all healthcare workers, stressing that medical practice is built on teamwork.
Mandaka emphasized the importance of securing housemanship placements within the mandatory two-year period using their provisional registration certificates, warning that failure to do so may require a reassessment examination.
He also cautioned against careless use of social media and encouraged the new doctors to seek guidance from senior colleagues when necessary.
Speaking on behalf of MDCN leadership, Dr. Mandaka reaffirmed the Council’s support for institutions expanding Nigeria’s medical training capacity while upholding professionalism.
“Our priority is to ensure that every doctor inducted into the profession is competent, compassionate, and ready to serve Nigeria’s healthcare needs,” he said, adding, “Seek guidance from seniors whenever necessary.”
Medical Elder, Professor Adeola Adebola Shokunbi, emphasized compassion and honesty as the hallmarks of medical practice. She urged the inductees to pursue continuous medical education, maintain healthy relationships, and avoid being driven solely by financial gain. “A doctor who doesn’t read is a dangerous doctor,” she cautioned.
Vice Chancellor of Babcock University, Professor Afolarin Olutunde Ojewole, congratulated the inductees and their families, reminding them that patients value quality care above all else.
“No patient will ask about your graduation date, but about the care you give,” he stressed.
Provost of the College, Professor Adeola Fowotade, described the induction as a covenant with humanity, stressing that medicine is a calling rooted in service.
She encouraged the new doctors to keep growing, adapting, and practicing with genuine care for people.
With Nigeria’s healthcare system strained by the emigration of over 16,000 doctors in recent years and a doctor-to-population ratio of just 3.9 per 10,000 people, Babcock University’s contribution is both timely and vital.
