The Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) has inducted 49 graduands of the Department of Animal Health Technology, Bauchi State College of Agriculture (BSCOA), Bauchi, as Veterinary Para-Professionals during the institution’s maiden Oath-Taking and Induction Ceremony.
The event, held at the College ICT Hall, marked a significant milestone in the advancement of veterinary para-professional education and practice in Nigeria. The induction formally admitted the graduands into the veterinary profession as trained Veterinary Para-Professionals, following the successful completion of their academic and professional training.
Administering the oath on behalf of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, the Registrar, Dr. Oladotun Fadipe, charged the inductees to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, integrity, and dedication in the discharge of their duties.
Dr. Fadipe emphasized that Veterinary Para-Professionals play a critical role in supporting veterinary healthcare delivery, livestock production, food security, disease surveillance, and the prevention and control of zoonotic diseases. He noted that the Council remains committed to ensuring that veterinary professionals and para-professionals are adequately trained and regulated in line with global best practices.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration within the veterinary profession, urging Veterinary Para-Professionals and Veterinary Doctors to work together in harmony for the advancement of animal health and public health in Nigeria.
“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.
“The induction ceremony is not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a reminder of the responsibilities that come with serving the veterinary profession and safeguarding animal and public health,” he added.
The ceremony featured a keynote lecture delivered by Dr. Ibrahim M. Bello (DVS), who highlighted the importance of professionalism, competence, and lifelong learning in advancing the veterinary sector and meeting emerging animal health challenges.
Speaking at the event, the Provost of Bauchi State College of Agriculture, Dr. Ahmed Isah Ahmed, expressed appreciation to the Veterinary Council of Nigeria for its support and guidance in maintaining professional standards. He commended the graduands for their commitment and resilience throughout their training.
The event was graced by the Honourable Commissioner for Higher Education and Regional Integration, Hajiya Hadiza Balarabe Kango, who served as the Chief Host. She reaffirmed the Bauchi State Government’s commitment to strengthening agricultural and veterinary education as strategic tools for economic development, livestock growth, and food security.
The induction of the 49 Veterinary Para-Professionals represents another milestone in the Veterinary Council of Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen 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.