The Vice-Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Prof. Ursula Ngozi Akanwa, has urged newly inducted veterinary doctors to uphold professional ethics while contributing to food safety and public health in Nigeria.
She gave the charge during the university’s 12th induction and oath-taking ceremony for Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) graduands.
Speaking during the ceremony organised in partnership with the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, the Vice-Chancellor described the induction as an important milestone in the lives of the graduands.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof. Nneoma Elechi Obasi, Akanwa stated that the ceremony officially grants the graduands the legal authority to practice Veterinary Medicine.
“Today is not merely ceremonial; it marks the transition of our graduands into professionals entrusted with the health of animals, the safety of our food systems and the protection of public health,” she said.
She noted that veterinarians play a major role in protecting animal health, supporting agriculture, and strengthening national food security.
The Vice-Chancellor also commended the Veterinary Council of Nigeria for granting full accreditation to the university’s veterinary programme and acknowledged industry partnerships supporting practical training for students.
🎓 INDUCTION & RECOGNITION
The Veterinary Council of Nigeria, led by its President, Mathew Adamu, and Acting Registrar, Oladotun Fadipe, issued practising licences to the graduands during the event.
A total of 48 veterinary medicine graduates were inducted into the profession.
Dr Chimezie Amarachi Blessing emerged as the overall best graduating student, while Dr Aniorji Sandra Chinonso received the Farm Alert Award.
The induction ceremony highlights the growing importance of veterinary professionals in safeguarding public health and supporting Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The university also reaffirmed its commitment to producing graduates equipped with both professional competence and ethical values.
