The Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University, Okada (IUO), Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, has charged newly inducted medical doctors of the institution to consciously avoid conflicts of interest and uphold the highest standards of professional ethics.
Prof. Ezemonye gave the charge at the 20th Oath-taking and Induction Ceremony of 29 newly qualified medical doctors held at the university in Okada, Edo State.
He stressed that beyond clinical competence, doctors must treat patients with dignity and respect, noting that these values are critical to patient safety and the trust reposed in the medical profession.
Speaking through the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Raphael Adeghe, the vice-chancellor said the theme of the ceremony, “A Doctor and a Fulfilling Life,” was particularly significant because of the unique privilege doctors have to save lives, solve complex problems and make meaningful differences in people’s lives.
According to him, while the medical profession offers deep purpose and fulfilment, achieving this alongside a healthy personal life requires intentional work-life balance, setting clear boundaries and avoiding burnout.
He described the newly inducted doctors as “watchmen over the nation’s health and wellbeing,” adding that they occupy a privileged position entrusted with the sacred responsibility of safeguarding public health. He noted that a healthy population enhances productivity and positively impacts the country’s economic development.
Delivering the keynote address on the theme, the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Edo State chapter, Dr. Eustace Eromosele Oseghale, said fulfilment in medical practice should not be measured by monetary gains but by the quality of care rendered to patients.
Dr. Oseghale, a Consultant ENT Head and Neck Surgeon at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), emphasized the importance of effective communication, organization, empathy, curiosity and collaboration with other healthcare professionals for success in medical practice.
He also advised the inductees to keep proper patient records, noting that accurate documentation enhances professional efficiency and protects doctors from avoidable legal and ethical challenges.
While appealing to the young doctors to remain in Nigeria to help bridge gaps in the healthcare sector, he added that those who may choose to seek opportunities abroad should remember their country and invest in it.
The Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), Prof. Fatima Kyari, represented by Prof. John Obodo, urged the inductees to maintain professionalism at all times.
She charged them to strictly adhere to the ethics of the medical profession and to ensure regular renewal of their practicing licenses in order to remain relevant and compliant in their careers.
