-
Begs them not to “japa”
From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has inducted 628 foreign-trained medical doctors (606) and dentists (22) into the Nigerian medical practice.
The inductees are graduates from foreign universities and medical colleges who successfully passed the written examination and other clinical assessments conducted by MDCN at the University College Hospital, Ibadan. These exams tested their capacity and knowledge of medicine.
During the induction ceremony held in Abuja on Thursday, the Registrar of MDCN, Prof. Fatima Kyari, administered the necessary oaths to the new doctors and dentists. She informed the inductees that they would be issued provisional licenses to practice and would begin a 12-month housemanship at any of the 44 accredited federal tertiary health institutions or one of the 70 other facilities that are also accredited for such services.
“You are expected to submit yourselves to your superiors, who will freely tutor you and give you the strong foundation to succeed in the medical profession,” she said.
Prof. Kyari further emphasized that during their housemanship, the inductees should refrain from participating in any industrial action (strike), and they are not permitted to refer to themselves as members of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD).
She urged the new doctors to take their housemanship seriously, as it would serve as a critical platform for their career in medicine. She also appealed to them to remain in the country, rather than joining the “japa” train, to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare workforce and serve the nation’s people.
The Chairman of MDCN, Prof. Afolabi Lesi, also addressed the inductees. He reminded them to avoid professional misconduct, as it could lead to sanctions by the MDCN’s disciplinary panel.
“As practitioners, you are expected to uphold the highest standards of medical and dental care. Remember that your patients will place their trust in you, and it is your responsibility to earn and maintain that trust through your skills, knowledge, and ethical practice,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of lifelong learning, stating, “The dynamic landscape of healthcare requires that you stay informed about new developments, procedures, and technologies to provide the best possible care.”
Prof. Lesi further emphasized the importance of teamwork, saying, “Working in the health sector requires collaboration. You will be part of a larger team, including other health professionals, administrative staff, and policy-makers. Fostering a spirit of teamwork and mutual respect will not only enhance your effectiveness but also contribute to a positive workplace culture.”
He also acknowledged the challenges ahead in the profession, especially in light of health workforce migration. “It is crucial for you to stay committed to your practice in Nigeria,” he said. “The Council and the Federal Government are working diligently to improve conditions for health professionals, so I encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities that will arise as we continue to improve healthcare delivery.”
In his remarks, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom, congratulated the new inductees. He appealed to them to use their knowledge and skills effectively in providing services to Nigerians in need of healthcare.
Prof. Pate assured the inductees that the government is putting in place strong measures to improve the working conditions of doctors and other health workers, as well as upgrading the health infrastructure in healthcare facilities across the country.