Egbewole tasks new medics on technology as UNILORIN produces 150 fresh medical graduates
By Tajudeen Babamale and Bashir Dawodu
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has charged newly inducted medical doctors of the institution to embrace modern technological skills that will enable them to become better professionals capable of saving lives and transforming healthcare delivery in Nigeria and across the globe.
Prof. Egbewole gave the charge last Friday (November 14, 2025) at the University Auditorium during the 40th induction and initiation ceremony of the Batch A class 2023 of the College of Health Sciences, where 150 new doctors were formally admitted into the medical profession.
While noting that technology is reshaping every profession globally, including the medical profession, Prof. Egbewole urged the inductees to deliberately acquire new digital competencies and equip themselves with tools required for effective and efficient patient care.
The Vice Chancellor highlighted the significance of the ceremony, stating that with the new inductees, the University of Ilorin has produced 5,082 medical doctors, a feat he described as a remarkable contribution to the nation’s healthcare system.
Prof. Egbewole also described the graduates as a “golden set,” as they were inducted during the University’s 50th anniversary. He encouraged them to go into the field with the confidence, compassion and capability that their training has instilled in them, adding that they possess the potential to change the medical narrative in Nigeria and beyond.
He reminded the new doctors that the realities of the field differ from classroom and laboratory experiences, stressing the need for continuous learning as they begin to make independent decisions previously made for them by consultants during their training.
Prof. Egbewole also underscored the importance of teamwork, urging the inductees to value other health professionals and contribute meaningfully to collaborative care as team leaders.
He charged them to uphold the reputation of the College and the University by ensuring that every patient under their care leaves feeling better, insisting that they must demonstrate the competence and character expected of Unilorin-trained doctors.
Earlier in his address, the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, Prof. Biodun Sulyman Alabi, advised the newly inducted medical doctors to remain committed to the nobility and core values of the medical profession. He stressed that the profession stands on the pillars of service to humanity, ethical conduct, non-discrimination and confidentiality, urging them to embody these principles as they begin their careers.
Prof. Alabi reminded them that medicine is globally regarded as one of the most noble professions, and as such, demands practitioners who are distinguished, disciplined and above reproach. He explained that historically, nobles were considered next to God and were treated with reverence, noting that doctors must therefore reflect honour in their words, actions and professional conduct.
He encouraged them to listen attentively to their patients, give them adequate time and commit themselves to their healing with sincerity and devotion. Drawing a parallel with divine care, he noted that doctors must strive to reflect the qualities of attentiveness and mercy, aligning their service with the healing mandate that defines the profession.
The Provost expressed confidence that the new doctors have been sufficiently equipped by the College and charged them to uphold the dignity, values and high standards that the medical profession demands.
In his lecture, the Guest Speaker and an alumnus of the University of Ilorin, Dr Festus Odunayo Oshoba, speaking on the topic titled “From Gown to Town:The Medical Profession Provides a Great Opportunity”, charged the new medical doctors to uphold professionalism and ethical standards as they begin their careers.
Dr Oshoba congratulated the inductees as he praised them for graduating “in peace and not in pieces,” but reminded them that the profession ahead is demanding and requires discipline, empathy and commitment.
“Medicine is not just a profession; it is a calling, a covenant and a journey of service. You are entering a sacred trust between you and humanity,” he said.
He urged them to avoid unethical practices, embrace lifelong learning, and let their impact be measured by the lives they touch rather than titles or material achievements.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kwara State chapter, Prof. A. O. Afolabi, welcomed the new professionals to the medical Community. He encouraged them to serve with humility and contribute to nation-building.
“Walk into the world as servants, not masters. Make your country great and never forget the soil that nurtured you,” he said, noting that the responsibility they now carry is lifelong.
Highlights of the ceremony included the oath-taking session conducted by the Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), Dr Fatima Kyari, who was represented by the Deputy Registrar, Dr Enejo Abdul, as well as the presentation of awards and prizes to outstanding graduates.
The event was graced by principal officers of the University, former Vice Chancellors, Deans, Heads of Departments, traditional rulers, family members, and other well-wishers.
