The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Professor Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo, has described the induction of 29 Bachelor of Physiotherapy graduates from the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, as a significant achievement for Nigeria’s healthcare sector. He noted that the development would help reduce the “Japa” syndrome affecting the nation’s health workforce.
Professor Otegbayo made the remarks on Monday during the induction ceremony of the 2025 graduating class of physiotherapists, held at the Paul Hendrickse Lecture Theatre, College of Medicine, UCH, Ibadan.
He commended the graduates for their dedication and hard work, stressing that the programme’s success was a reflection of both the lecturers’ commitment and the students’ resilience.
“The induction ceremony of these 29 graduates is a huge success for the nation’s health sector. As you take the professional oath today, remember this is far more than a formality—it is a solemn promise to uphold the ethos, ethics, standards, and values that define your profession.
Your role in the healthcare delivery system is indispensable. Our hospital and our nation rely on competent, ethical, and compassionate professionals like you to deliver quality care and diagnostic services that save lives daily,” he said.
Professor Otegbayo announced that UCH would offer employment to 50% of the 2025 graduating class to boost retention of healthcare workers, in line with the vision of the Minister of Health, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate. He explained that the gesture would also help address the challenge of limited internship placements and reduce the migration of trained professionals abroad
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, congratulated the graduates on their dedication and perseverance.
“Today marks the culmination of years of relentless effort and the beginning of your noble journey as licensed professionals,” he said. “You are equipped not only with knowledge, but with critical thinking, resilience, and compassion — the hallmarks of an excellent physiotherapist.”
Also speaking, the Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor T.O. Ogundiran, described the graduates as “healers” who had been tested in theory, practice, patience, and integrity. He encouraged them to live up to the symbolic name they chose for themselves, Helianthus — the sunflower — representing hope, strength, and resilience.
“Physiotherapy is not just a career; it is a calling — a science of movement and an art of restoration,” he said. “You are not just therapists; you are advocates for your patients’ recovery and dignity.”
In her valedictory speech, graduating student Temiloluwa Olajide expressed gratitude to the CMD, lecturers, parents, and alumni for their support during their challenging training period. She described the CMD’s employment gesture as “highly encouraging” and promised that the graduates would remain good ambassadors of the institution.
“Some of us almost gave up, but we thank God for seeing us through,” she said. “We will work hard and uphold the integrity of our profession.”
Highlight of the ceremony was presentation of awards to some deserving graduands and sponsors.
