The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin (Unilorin), has produced and inducted 29 graduates of Veterinary Medicine in the 2021/2022 academic session.
In his address, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, the Vice Chancellor of the Unilorin, charged the graduands not to disappoint Nigeria in their practice.
He underscored the need for the newly inducted Veterinarians to practice their profession with compassion.
“You will be dealing with subject, object and patients that cannot complain, you therefore owe it as a duty to be compassionate.
“You should comport yourself in a way your patient will be happy. Don’t forget if you are negligent, you will account to your creator,” he said.
Egbewole advised them to strive to develop on their capacity, adding that the natural basic skills have been given by the university.
He also urged them to leverage on technology to enhance on their jobs, while warning them against abuse of opportunities given to them.
The vice chancellor said that parents and society deserve more from the new veterinary doctors for the labour on them.
Earlier, Prof. Oyebisi Azeez, the Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Unilorin, said that the ceremony marked the beginning of a journey that hold great responsibility and even greater reward.
Azeez stated that veterinarians play unique role in the society, adding: “We are the guardians of the health and well-being of animals, large and small.
“We are the defenders of the bond between humans and their beloved pets. We are the stewards of our environment, advocating for the welfare of both domestic and wild creatures.
According to her, being a veterinarian is not just about treating ailments, prescribing medications or performing
surgeries.
She submitted that it is about understanding the intricate connections that exist between animals, humans and
the environment.
“It’s about being a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves, a source of comfort to those in pain, and a beacon of hope for those who are suffering.
“In your hands, new veterinarians, you hold the power to make a real difference in the world.
“You have the ability to alleviate sufferings, promote the welfare of animals and safeguard public health. Your
knowledge and expertise will touch the lives of countless creatures, both great and small,” she said.
Azeez observed that with this immense power come great responsibility and that the path the graduands choose may not always be easy.
“It will demand dedication, compassion and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. You will witness heartwarming successes and face challenging cases. You will become educators, advocates and leaders in the field of veterinary medicine,” she charged.
In a keynote address, Dr Tunde Ifemade, Animal Care Service Konsult, also advised the graduates to draw several lessons that would guide their path in their chosen careers from the life of Agbato.
His address was entitled: “From Healing Heaves to Healthy Harvests: The Inspiring Journey to Tunde Agbato, Veterinarian Extraordinaire”.
He enjoined the graduands to strive to make difference where they find themselves and work progressively in thier career.
Ifemade therefore urged them to seek success with diligence and hardwork.
On her part, the President, Veterinary Council of Nigeria, AIG Aishatu Abubakar-Baju, stated that the Veterinary Council of Nigeria celebrated its 70 years of its existence last week.
Abubakar-Baju, who was represented by Prof. Mathew Adamu, explained that the council was among the earliest regulatory bodies in Nigeria, solely responsible for the regulation of training and practice of Veterinary Medicine in Nigeria.
She also urged the graduands to be exemplary and be good ambassadors of the profession.
Dr Olutoyin Adetuberu, the President, Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), asserted that “the Vet medicine is not any profession”, adding that it is a noble one.
“You are the first line public health specialist. 70 per cent of diseases have animal origin.
“They are zoonotic and you are the one nipping those diseases in the bud. You are preventing it from the humans.
“So, you are a rare profession and you should be held in high esteem wherever you go. Carry yourself with dignity,” he advised.
