Prof. Nosakhare Godwin Bazuaye, a distinguished haematologist and stem cell transplant specialist from the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, has disclosed that a staggering 452,443 students applied to study medicine in Nigerian universities in 2023.
This revelation came during his lecture at the induction ceremony for the 2023/2024 Batch A Medicine and Surgery graduates at Edo State University, Uzairue.
In his lecture, titled, Now a Doctor, What Next?, Prof. Bazuaye described doctors as highly intelligent individuals trained in medicine to manage both the physical and mental health of their patients.
He emphasised that, in addition to their medical knowledge, doctors must be willing to go the extra mile to save lives, in line with the Hippocratic oath.
He also highlighted the need for good character and passion in the profession.
Addressing the challenges faced by medical practitioners in Nigeria, Prof. Bazuaye lamented the poor working conditions, inadequate facilities, and low pay, which often lead to the migration of doctors to better-equipped countries.
He urged for reforms in the Nigerian healthcare system, including the establishment of a robust health insurance policy, improved salaries, better facilities, and a more conducive working environment for doctors.
Dr. Fatima Kyari, Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), represented by Dr. Victor Kolawole, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of ethical conduct and adherence to professional guidelines.
She reminded the new doctors to uphold the values of humanity and passion in their work.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Edo State University, Prof. Dawood Omolumen Egbefo, expressed pride in the 46 newly inducted medical doctors.
He praised the university’s progress since its establishment in 2016, highlighting the transformation of Auchi Central Hospital into the Edo State University Teaching Hospital.
Prof. Egbefo called on the Edo State government to continue improving the university’s facilities, emphasising the benefits to both healthcare and the local economy.
Prof. Egbefo also commended the MDCN for granting provisional approval for the MBBS program, which led to the graduation of the institution’s first set of medical students in March.
He emphasised the university’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation, noting its achievements, including West Africa’s first modern anatomy teaching technology and the CANVAS Learning Management System.
The event was marked by the presentation of awards to outstanding graduates, including Miss Idris Aisha Sina, who received 12 awards, including best female and overall best student.
The induction ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of the new doctors but also underscored the challenges and responsibilities they face as they begin their medical careers.
