32 New Veterinary Doctors Inducted as Experts Link Profession to Nigeria’s Blue Economy Future
Maryam Aminu
As Nigeria intensifies efforts to diversify its economy through the exploitation of marine and aquatic resources, experts have identified veterinary medicine as a key pillar in driving food security, public health and sustainable growth within the nation’s emerging blue economy.
This formed the focus of the 17th Oath-Taking and Induction Ceremony of 32 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) graduands of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, organised by the Veterinary Council of Nigeria in Makurdi.
The ceremony, held at the Richard Kimbir Senate Building of the university, saw the Registrar of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, Dr. Fadipe Oladotun, administer the oath of allegiance and formally induct the graduands into the veterinary profession.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Muyiwa Benedict said veterinary professionals would play a decisive role in unlocking opportunities within Nigeria’s blue economy through improved aquatic animal health management, disease prevention and food safety systems.
Speaking on the theme, “Veterinary Medicine at the Frontier: Unlocking Aquatic Animal Health and the Blue Economy in Nigeria,” he noted that the profession is increasingly expanding beyond traditional livestock practice into strategic sectors critical to national economic growth.
According to him, veterinarians are essential in combating aquatic diseases, improving fish production, safeguarding public health and strengthening environmental sustainability.
He charged the newly inducted doctors to uphold the ethics and integrity of the profession while embracing innovation, research and interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing emerging animal health challenges.
“Veterinary medicine remains central to national development through zoonotic disease control, food safety, livestock development and environmental protection,” he stated.
Also speaking, President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, Prof. Mathew Adamu, urged the fresh graduates to remain committed to professionalism, ethical conduct and lifelong learning.
He encouraged them to become ambassadors of excellence by contributing meaningfully to national development through quality veterinary services, research and innovation.
Representing the Vice Chancellor of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Mrs. C. D. Tuleun, congratulated the graduands and commended the Veterinary Council of Nigeria for maintaining high standards in veterinary education and practice.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the President VCN Award of Excellence to Dr. Luka Ntorey for emerging as the overall best graduating student.
The event attracted academics, veterinary experts, government officials, parents and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the transition of the graduands into professional practice and the growing relevance of veterinary medicine in national development.
