Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) has inducted 29 graduates of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) into the council.
The inductees on Monday this week graduated from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of UNILORIN In the 2021/2022 academic session.
A son of a police officer in Ogun state and a petty trader mother, Fasasi Abdulbasit, emerged as the best graduate in the faculty.
Performing the induction during the fifth induction/oath-taking ceremony entitled: “From Healing Heaves to Healthy Harvests: The inspiring Journey to Tunde Agbato, Veterinarian Extraordinaire”, the President, Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Aishatu Abubakar-Baju, represented by Prof Matthew Adamu, charged the graduates to abide by laid down rules, regulations, and laws.
She said the regulatory agency had digitized its operation to check quackery and provide more efficient and effective operation.
She urged the new graduates to register with the agency to practice legally. “You must practice within the ambits of ethics of the profession and within the law or face tribunal set up to try defaulters”, he said.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof Wahab Egbewole (SAN), charged the graduands to soar like eagles with comportment and integrity.
Prof Egbewole, who said that parents and society deserve more from the new veterinary doctors for their labour on them, added that “You cannot afford to disappoint Nigeria”.
“Practice with compassion because the animals you’ll be dealing with cannot talk. Also, it would be best if you comported yourself in society because people expect a lot from you. Develop your capacity. Don’t be complacent. Be diligent. Leverage on technology. This is an opportunity. Don’t abuse the opportunity given to you”, he said.
Earlier, the Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Prof Oyebisi Azeez, said that the ceremony marked the beginning of a journey that holds great responsibility and even greater reward.
Professor Azeez, who said that veterinarians play a unique role in society, added “We are the 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.
“But being a veterinarian is not just about treating ailments, prescribing medications, or performing surgeries. 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 can 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”.
