VCN Inducts 49 Veterinary Para-Professionals in Bauchi to Strengthen Animal, Public Health
Maryam Aminu
Animals are often the first line of defence for food security and public health, making the training of skilled veterinary personnel critical to safeguarding both livestock and human lives. In a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s animal healthcare system, the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) has inducted 49 graduates of the Department of Animal Health Technology, Bauchi State College of Agriculture (BSCOA), Bauchi, as Veterinary Para-Professionals.
The induction, which took place during the institution’s maiden Oath-Taking and Induction Ceremony at the College ICT Hall, marked a major milestone in veterinary para-professional education and practice in the country. The newly inducted professionals were formally admitted into the veterinary profession after successfully completing their academic and professional training.
Administering the oath on behalf of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, the Registrar, Dr. Oladotun Fadipe, urged the inductees to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, integrity and dedication in the discharge of their responsibilities.
According to a statement signed by Madina Gertrude, Head, Information and Public Relations, Dr. Fadipe described Veterinary Para-Professionals as indispensable partners in veterinary healthcare delivery, livestock production, food security, disease surveillance, and the prevention and control of zoonotic diseases.
He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to ensuring that veterinary professionals and para-professionals are adequately trained and regulated in line with global best practices.
The VCN Registrar further stressed the need for stronger collaboration between Veterinary Para-Professionals and Veterinary Doctors, noting that both groups have complementary roles in advancing animal and public health.
“There should be no competition between Veterinary Para-Professionals and Veterinary Doctors. They must work in synergy, complementing one another’s roles and expertise to strengthen veterinary service delivery and achieve better outcomes for livestock production, animal welfare, and public health,” he stated.
He added that the induction ceremony was not only a celebration of academic success but also a reminder of the professional obligations associated with protecting animal health and public well-being.
The event also featured a keynote lecture delivered by Dr. Ibrahim M. Bello (DVS), who underscored the importance of professionalism, competence and continuous learning in addressing emerging animal health challenges and advancing the veterinary sector.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Provost of Bauchi State College of Agriculture, Dr. Ahmed Isah Ahmed, commended the Veterinary Council of Nigeria for its support in maintaining professional standards.
He also congratulated the graduands for their perseverance and dedication throughout their training.
The Honourable Commissioner for Higher Education and Regional Integration, Hajiya Hadiza Balarabe Kango, who served as Chief Host, reaffirmed the Bauchi State Government’s commitment to strengthening agricultural and veterinary education as strategic drivers of economic growth, livestock development and food security.
The induction of the 49 Veterinary Para-Professionals is expected to further boost the nation’s veterinary workforce and enhance the delivery of quality animal health services across the country.
The ceremony concluded with the administration of the professional oath, presentation of induction certificates and goodwill messages from stakeholders, family members and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the newly inducted Veterinary Para-Professionals.
