Aiyedatiwa reaffirms commitment to medical education at UNIMED convocation
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing medical education and developing critical human capital, stressing that the effectiveness of any health system depends on the calibre of its workforce.
Speaking as Visitor to the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo (UNIMED) during the institution’s 7th Convocation Ceremony in Ondo city, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the event as “a celebration of academic excellence and a powerful affirmation of education as the cornerstone of societal development.”
He noted that graduands were emerging from a specialised institution of global relevance, dedicated to training medical and health professionals to shape the future of healthcare in Nigeria and beyond. The Governor recalled that the establishment of UNIMED had placed Ondo State firmly on the map of medical education and research in Africa.
“Over the years, the institution has justified that vision through steady growth, academic excellence, and the production of highly skilled health professionals,” he said, commending the university’s expanding programmes, improved infrastructure, and growing reputation nationally and internationally.
Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s support for UNIMED’s mandate to train competent, ethical, and compassionate medical professionals. He also announced the commencement of the Senate Building construction, a promise made at the 6th Convocation, and reaffirmed the prompt release of government subventions to the university.
He urged graduands to view their certificates as calls to service, encouraging them to explore research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in healthcare. The Governor also expressed gratitude to Oba Adesimbo Victor Kiladejo, the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, and the people of the kingdom for their steadfast support of the institution.
In her keynote address, Vice-Chancellor Professor Aderonke Adejuyigbe said 771 students graduated, including 598 undergraduates and 173 postgraduates. Over 78 per cent of undergraduates earned classified degrees, and the university celebrated the graduation of its inaugural PhD candidate in Family Medicine through collaboration with the West African College of Surgeons and the West African College of Physicians.
The Pro-Chancellor, Professor Ayodele Arowojolu, and Chancellor Oba Kiladejo commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his support, highlighting the university’s full accreditation and record of producing four sets of medical doctors in 12 years. Oba Kiladejo urged graduands to uphold professionalism in addressing Nigeria’s healthcare challenges and appealed for continued government support to sustain staff welfare and academic growth.
