President and Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo in Ogun State, Prof. Ademola Tayo, has charged its fresh 101 medical student graduates to always uphold ethical principles and confidentiality in the medical profession.

The Vice-Chancellor gave the charge during the 10th induction of medical student graduates into the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).

He called on the graduates of the Benjamin Carson College of Health and Medical Sciences of the university to make a difference in the noble profession.

He reminded the inductees that their degree is not an endpoint but a license to begin learning and making a meaningful impact.

“Pursue purpose over popularity. Seek service, not status.”

Represented by the Senior Vice President Academics, Prof. Philemon Amanze, he emphasised Competence, Compassion, and Integrity, among others, as part of the five guiding pillars to the secrets of success in their chosen career.

Medical Elder, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, Commissioner for Health in Rivers State, urged the graduates to remain focused despite the challenges they would face. She reminded them that the world awaits their contribution and that they have the power to impact lives positively.

“The path you have chosen is not an easy one. To achieve greatness, you must diligently utilise every opportunity and commit to making a lifelong impact on the Nigerian healthcare system and the lives of each person you come across.”

Prof. John Sotunsa, Provost of the College, emphasised the graduates’ role as caregivers, system reformers, policy influencers, and technology adopters.

He encouraged them to use their skills to make a difference and contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

The event also provided a platform for special recognition to Chisom Okafor, the overall best medical graduate, who achieved 10 distinctions in her final MBBS exams.

Her outstanding performance earned her cash prizes of N200,000 from the NMA Ogun State, presented by the representative, Dr. Luqman Ogunjimi, and an additional N100,000 each from him and another donor.

She also received another cash gift from anonymous donors, celebrating her remarkable achievement.

As the inductees embark on their medical journey, the MDCN Registrar, Dr. Fatima Kyari, represented by Dr. Tijjani Ali Mandaka, reminded them to apply the wisdom and guidance of seasoned professionals.

“Remember to acknowledge your limitations and collaborate where necessary. With determination, compassion, and integrity, you can make a positive impact in our healthcare sector and beyond,” he said.

The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the graduates’ journey, as they transitioned from students to professional healthcare providers.