After 10 Years of Training, 167 AAU Medical Graduates Urgently Seek MDCN Induction

A total of 167 medical graduates from Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Edo State, have raised concerns over the delay in their induction into the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), six months after completing their studies.

The graduates, who staged a peaceful protest on Thursday, expressed frustration over their prolonged journey, which spanned more than a decade. Despite graduating on August 15, 2024, they are yet to be inducted, a crucial step required to begin their housemanship.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Precious Omohegbele explained the gravity of the situation:

“We are the 2015 set of medical students of AAU, and we are now medical graduates. We graduated on August 15, 2024, and have spent five months at home without induction. By now, we ought to be halfway into our house training. There might be problems hindering our induction, but we cannot keep waiting as we have already spent 10 years in medical school (2015-2025).”

She further appealed to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State to intervene and resolve the crisis, noting that the delay has left them stuck in limbo.

“It would be unfair for 167 of us to remain at home after 10 years of training. We are not getting any younger with each passing day,” Omohegbele added.

Governor Okpebholo, who addressed the protesters briefly during a visit to the institution, acknowledged their plight and assured them that the matter would be addressed swiftly.

“I have heard you, and I also feel your pain about the situation you are in right now. I am aware of this issue of accreditation and other related matters. I will invite the acting Vice Chancellor of the institution to discuss and look into the matter and see how to resolve it as quickly as possible. Just be patient. Everything will be fine,” the governor said.

The graduates are hopeful that the intervention of the state government will expedite their induction, allowing them to proceed with their medical careers after an already extended academic journey.