Our reporter
In a major development for medical students in Edo State, Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has successfully facilitated the induction of 128 medical graduates from Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, into the medical profession.
This follows months of uncertainty after the students’ induction, initially scheduled for August 2024, was delayed due to ongoing crises at the university.
The intervention came after a formal protest from the medical students, who had spent over 10 years in medical school. Their induction had been postponed due to unresolved issues within the institution, leaving the graduates in limbo. However, after engaging with the relevant authorities, including the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), the state government has now secured a resolution.
The MDCN has set a new date for the induction ceremony, with the graduates to be formally inducted on the 13th of February, 2025.
Edo State’s Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu, expressed gratitude to the Registrar of the MDCN, Dr. Fatima Kyari, for her support during the negotiations. Dr. Iyamu also reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Okpebholo to improving the welfare of students in the state, assuring that education remains a priority for the current administration.
“Governor Okpebholo has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the welfare of our students,” Dr. Iyamu said. “This breakthrough not only brings relief to the 128 medical graduates but also renews hope for other students and lecturers in the Faculty of Medicine.”
The Governor’s swift action followed a protest earlier in the month, during which the graduates blocked the Benin-Auchi highway to express their frustration over the delay. Spokesperson for the graduates, Precious Omohegbele, emphasised that they had already completed their courses but were denied induction due to the ongoing crisis.
In response, Governor Okpebholo intervened directly, bringing together all key stakeholders to find a workable solution. His proactive approach has not only resolved the immediate issue but has also renewed confidence in the medical faculty at AAU Ekpoma.
This is not the first initiative under Governor Okpebholo’s administration aimed at improving the educational landscape in the state. In addition to securing the medical students’ induction, the Governor has also reintroduced the payment of monthly subventions to the university and reinstated staff who were unjustly dismissed during the previous administration.
With these measures, the Governor is positioning Edo as a leader in educational reform. As stated by a government source, “Governor Okpebholo’s administration is committed to transforming Edo into one of the most educationally viable states in the country.”
The successful resolution of the medical students’ induction crisis marks another step in the State’s broader efforts to revitalise its educational sector, ensuring that students receive the opportunities they deserve to succeed and thrive.
