On Wednesday, January 28, 2026, the Provost of the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan (COMUI), Professor T. O. Ogundiran, FAS, alongside deans of faculties and distinguished medical elders, formally cloaked 300-level students of the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery and Bachelor of Dental Surgery (MBBS/BDS). The white coat ceremony not only marks a rite of passage into clinical training but the launch of the medical students into a life of values of professionalism, service, and compassion.
The ceremony, the eighth of its kind, took place at the Paul Hendrickse Lecture Theatre of the College and was organized by the College of Medicine Education Unit (CMEU) under the leadership of its Director, Professor A. A. Adeolu. The event was colourful with principal officers from the University of Ibadan (UI), the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan (COMUI), and the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, as well as staff and students, in attendance.
The Deputy Registrar and Secretary to the College, Mr. A. E. Odedele, welcomed dignitaries to the solemn ceremony and congratulated the students on earning their white coats. He reminded them that while clinical training may be demanding, they are surrounded by mentors, distinguished medical professionals, and a supportive academic community committed to their success. He urged the students to remain focused and disciplined, assuring them that the College’s training and facilities are of international standards.
In his remarks, the Chief Medical Director of the University College Hospital (UCH), Professor J. A. Otegbayo, represented by Professor O. Ibiyemi, rejoiced with the students on their transition into clinical training. He advised them to uphold respect for patients, who are central to their education, and to show due regard for senior colleagues and other members of staff. He emphasized the value of the College’s laboratories and equipment, urging the students to handle them with care, as well as to treat patients’ samples with the utmost diligence. He further reminded them to maintain professionalism at all times by being neatly dressed and presentable, reflecting the high standards expected of medical practitioners.
In his address, Professor Ogundiran specially congratulated the students, describing the ceremony as a public affirmation of their commitment to service. He encouraged them to allow empathy to guide their practice, noting that although the journey ahead may be intense, it is designed to build and not to break them. He urged the students to speak up when necessary and reassured them of the College’s confidence in their abilities. He stated that the management is proud of them and believes strongly in their potentials. Thereafter, he led the students in pledging their allegiance to the medical profession.
In a speech titled “Profession of Values”, the President of the Ibadan College of Medicine Alumni Association Worldwide (ICOMAA-WW), Emeritus Professor S. I. Omokhodion, represented by Professor S. O. Ogunlade, encouraged the students to uphold the core principles of character and integrity. He observed that while intelligence may take one to the top, character is essential for sustaining success. He pointed out the fact that the medical profession demands both academic excellence and physical fitness. He reminded them that they are called to responsibility and urged them to shun all forms of examination malpractice.
He further encouraged the students to be fully engaged in their training by attending every lecture and ward round, and by cultivating the habit of asking questions. He also emphasized the importance of effective patient–doctor communication and the strict observance of confidentiality in medical practice.
Some of the dignitaries present at the event congratulated the students and gave them professional counsel. Among those who gave words of counsel were Professor A. A. Adeolu, Director, CMEU; Professor T. A. Lawal, Dean, Faculty of Clinical Sciences; Professor M. D. Dairo, Dean, Faculty of Public Health; Professor B. M. Kolude, Dean, Faculty of Dentistry; Professor Taiwo Kotila; and Professor Oyeronke Odunola, represented by Dr. Bose Orimadegun.
The event also featured goodwill messages from student leaders, notably Folusho Olu-Adegbola, President of the University of Ibadan Medical Students’ Association (UIMSA), and Patrick Okelue, President of the University of Ibadan Association of Dental Students (UADS). Their presence and words of counsel offered encouragement and guidance to their younger colleagues who are embarking on their clinical training journey.
On behalf of the Deputy Provost of the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan (COMUI), Professor S. B. Olaleye, the Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Professor T. A. Lawal, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing deep appreciation to everyone whose presence and contributions made the ceremony a memorable and meaningful success.
The ceremony was anchored by the Sub-Deans, Undergraduate MBBS and BDS, whose coordination ensured a smooth and well-organized event.