It was a profound privilege to be a special guest at a truly historic event: the 1st Induction & Oath Taking Ceremony into the Medical Profession, Class of 2025, hosted by the Eko University of Medicine and Health Sciences (EkoUNIMED) in Ijanikin, Lagos.

This landmark ceremony did not just mark the formal entry of a new cohort of medical doctors into their noble profession; it represented a major step forward for institutional excellence and healthcare capacity-building in Nigeria.

The atmosphere at the Chief (Dr.) Hammed Ayodele Ibraheem Multipurpose Complex was one of immense pride and aspiration. Watching the pioneer set of MBBS graduands take the Hippocratic Oath was a powerful moment. This oath is the foundation of the medical profession—a solemn promise to serve humanity with compassion, integrity, and dedication.

For these young men and women, this is the beginning of a challenging yet deeply rewarding journey. As they transition from students to full-fledged medical professionals, they carry the weighty responsibility of safeguarding public health and delivering essential care.

As a firm believer in the power of well-structured and excellently managed institutions—a principle I upheld during my tenure at the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)—I was particularly impressed by EkoUNIMED’s achievement in graduating its pioneer set.

The establishment of world-class institutions like EkoUNIMED is critical to advancing our national development goals. Quality medical education ensures that the next generation of doctors are not only technically competent but also fully equipped to innovate and lead in a rapidly evolving global health landscape.

My message to the newly inducted doctors focused on the core values that sustain a professional career:
1. Commitment to the Oath: Never let the pressures of the profession overshadow the foundational promise of service you made today.
2. Lifelong Learning: Medicine is a field of constant evolution; remain a student throughout your career.
3. Integrity and Empathy: Let your character define your practice. Uphold the highest ethical standards and treat every life with the utmost respect and compassion.

The quality of a nation’s health system is a direct reflection of the quality of its training institutions. The success of EkoUNIMED’s first graduating class is a testament to the dedication of the University’s management, faculty, and founders.

I extend my warmest congratulations to the Vice-Chancellor, the entire EkoUNIMED community, the proud parents, and, most importantly, the newly inducted doctors of the Class of 2025.

I wish them all the very best as they embark on their national service and clinical practice. May their careers be filled with impact, healing, and continuous professional growth.