Umudike, Abia State – The Acting Registrar of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN), Dr. Oladotun Fadipe, has urged newly inducted veterinary doctors of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) to uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism in service to national food security and public health.
The charge was delivered on behalf of the Acting Registrar by Dr. Sarah Chimezie during the 12th Induction and Oath-taking Ceremony for the 2024/2025 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) graduands. The ceremony, held on Wednesday, 6th May 2026, was organized in collaboration with the Veterinary Council of Nigeria.
Representing the Council alongside VCN President, Prof. Mathew Adamu, Dr. Chimezie said the induction signifies more than formal admission into the profession. It is, she noted, a call to responsibility, discipline, and integrity in veterinary practice.
Prof. Adamu described the veterinary profession as critical to animal health management, food safety, disease control, and public health protection.
He encouraged the new doctors to be worthy ambassadors of the profession in all their engagements. He also commended MOUAU for sustaining quality veterinary education and consistently producing graduates distinguished in both learning and character.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Charles C. Ibe emphasized the need for practitioners to operate within the ethical and legal framework of the profession.
He urged the graduands to remain guided by the laws and regulations governing veterinary practice in Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ursula Ngozi Akanwa, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof. Nneoma Elechi Obasi, described the induction as a major milestone in the professional journey of the graduands. She reminded them that their responsibilities include safeguarding animal health, ensuring food safety, and supporting agricultural development.
Prof. Akanwa expressed appreciation to the Veterinary Council of Nigeria for granting full accreditation to the University’s veterinary programme and acknowledged industry partners for their support in strengthening practical training.
A total of 48 DVM graduands were inducted and issued practicing licenses by the VCN.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of awards to outstanding graduands. Dr. Chimezie Amarachi Blessing emerged as the overall best graduating student, while Dr. Aniorji Sandra Chinonso received the Farm Alert Award.