Gregory University, Uturu, a leading privately owned institution in Abia State, has administered the Physician’s Oath to 83 newly qualified medical doctors in a colourful induction ceremony held over the weekend. The event marked a significant milestone as the third batch of medical graduates from the university’s College of Medical Sciences, and the largest cohort to date.
Of the 83 inductees, 26 were male while 57 were female, highlighting the growing presence of women in Nigeria’s medical profession. The ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries from the medical and academic communities, as well as parents, guardians, and well-wishers.
Speaking at the event, the university’s Founder and Proprietor, Prof. Gregory Ibe, who was represented by the Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Uwaoma Uche, expressed immense satisfaction at the realisation of his vision for medical education and human empowerment through the establishment of Gregory University. According to him, the induction of the third batch of doctors is a testament to the institution’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and ethical medical practice.
“The founding of Gregory University was anchored on a strong desire to empower humanity, particularly through medicine. With this record-setting induction of 83 doctors, my vision is being fulfilled. This success reflects the values of hard work, discipline, and integrity that we promote at this institution,” Prof. Ibe stated.
He commended the new doctors for their dedication and academic achievements, describing them as a beacon of hope for the future of healthcare in Nigeria. “Your achievements today signal the promise of a healthier future, and together we must continue to advance humanity through quality education and healthcare,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), Dr. Fatima Kyari, represented by Dr. Tijani Mandaka, Head of Registration at the Council, acknowledged Gregory University’s growing reputation in the medical education space. She commended the leadership for fostering an environment conducive to quality medical training and urged the inductees to uphold the professional standards of the Council.
“This institution has continued to distinguish itself in academic excellence and professional grooming. These graduates are a product of that legacy, and we are confident they will contribute meaningfully to the nation’s healthcare system,” she said.
In his goodwill message, the Chancellor of the university, Ikechukwu Gregory Ibe (Jnr), advised the new doctors to embrace lifelong learning, uphold the ethics of the profession, and strive to raise the standard of healthcare in Nigeria. “You are embarking on a heroic journey. Greatness is attainable through diligence, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” he told them.
The Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, also hailed the rapid development of Gregory University, attributing it to strategic policies aimed at expanding access to tertiary education and producing competent professionals equipped to transform society.
“Our mission to produce ethically grounded, God-fearing, and highly skilled global leaders remains firmly on course. These graduates are a shining example of our efforts,” Uwakwe declared.
Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. C. U. Njoku, in her address, reminded the inductees of the core values instilled in them during their training, including professionalism, ethical conduct, and service to humanity. She urged them to view the ceremony not as an endpoint, but as the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and contribution to society.
“Medicine is a constantly evolving discipline. To remain relevant and impactful, you must commit yourselves to continuous education and professional development. Let this day mark the start of your unending pursuit of medical excellence,” she advised.
Delivering the valedictory speech on behalf of the graduating class, Dr. Chidera Celine, who emerged as the overall best graduating student with seven distinctions—including in Anatomy, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Paediatrics, Gynaecology, Surgery, and Community Medicine—thanked the university for the quality of training they received. The Imo State native, from Ngor Okpuala, paid a heartfelt tribute to her mother, whom she credited for her academic success, describing her as the pillar of her journey.
“My mother made tremendous sacrifices to see me through this programme. I dedicate this achievement to her and to the management and faculty who nurtured and guided us every step of the way,” she said emotionally.
The induction marks another landmark in Gregory University’s ongoing mission to produce competent, ethical, and globally competitive medical professionals equipped to meet the healthcare challenges of the 21st century.
