‘Discharge your duties with compassion’- University VC charges Veterinarians

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, North Central Nigeria, Professor Wahab Egbewole SAN has charged  the newly inducted Veterinarians of the institution to practice their profession with compassion. The Vice Chancellor expressed stated this at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine during the induction of  29 graduates of Veterinary Medicine in the 2021/2022 academic session.

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He charged the graduands not to disappoint the nation in their practice and that they should comport themselves in a way their patient will be happy and warned that they should not forget that if you are negligent, they will account to their creator.

Egbewole also advised them to strive to develop on their capacity, adding that the natural basic skills have been given by the University. He urged  them to leverage on technology to enhance on their jobs, and warned them against abuse of opportunities given to them.

The Vice Chancellor reminded them that parents and society deserve more from them for the labour on them.

Also speaking, the Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University, Professor Oyebisi Azeez disclosed that the ceremony marked the beginning of a journey that holds great responsibility and even greater reward.

The Dean stated that veterinarians play unique role in the society and described them as 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 but rather, it’s 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 suffering, 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 advised.

Also speaking, the President, Veterinary Council of Nigeria, AIG Aishatu Abubakar-Baju stated that the Veterinary Council of Nigeria celebrated its 70 years of  existence last week.

Abubakar-Baju who was represented by Prof Mathew Adamu, of the Council explained that it is among the earliest regulatory bodies in Nigeria, solely responsible for the regulation of training and practice of Veterinary Medicine in Nigeria. She urged the graduands to be exemplary and be good ambassadors of the profession.

Similarly, the President Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Dr. Olutoyin Adetuberu asserted that the Vet medicine is not any profession, adding that it is a noble one. According to him, they are the first line public health specialist as 70 percent of diseases have animal origin.  He added that they are zoonotic and are the one nipping that diseases in the bud and  preventing it from the humans.

Adetuberu described them as rare profession that should be held in high esteem wherever they go.