The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri, held its 35th Attestation and Oath-Taking Ceremony graduating one hundred and nineteen (119) Doctors of Veterinary Medicine (DVM).

The event, which took place on Thursday, 15th May 2025, at the Muhammadu Indimi International Conference Centre, University of Maiduguri was chaired by the Vice Chancellor University, Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele, ably represented by the Provost of the College of Postgraduate Studies, Professor Yakubu Muktar. In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor commended the Faculty for its resilience and growth in research, academic excellence, and alumni engagement, attributes that continue to elevate the University’s reputation in the academic community.

Professor Mele praised the leadership of the Dean, Professor Yakubu Ahmed Gaidam, particularly highlighting the selection of the Faculty’s Veterinary Microbiology Laboratory for the prestigious Fleming Fund Country Grant Project. The project, which addresses antimicrobial resistance (AMR) across animal, human, and environmental health sectors, places the faculty at the forefront of AMR surveillance and stewardship in Nigeria.

He also noted the laboratory's ongoing ISO 17025 certification process as evidence of the Faculty’s commitment to international standards. Additionally, he applauded the Faculty’s full accreditation by the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) upto 2029, describing it as a significant achievement. Congratulating the inductees, he urged them to uphold the highest standards of professional ethics.

In his address, the Dean of the Faculty, Professor Yakubu Gaidam, confirmed the induction of 119 graduates and expressed appreciation to the University Management for its unwavering support. He further reaffirmed the Faculty’s dedication to academic excellence.

Professor Gaidam also acknowledged the contributions of key supporters, particularly the First Lady of Borno State, Dr. Falmata Babagana Umara Zulum, for her generous interventions—including laboratory renovations, installation of solar power systems, and scholarship support for postgraduate training. He also commended Dr. Ibrahim Abdulazeez Okene, a member of the Faculty, for his consistent support in enhancing internet connectivity and journal access. The Dean emphasized the role of the alumni in institutional development and encouraged the inductees to serve as worthy ambassadors of the faculty.

In his remarks, the President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, Professor Mathew Adamu, congratulated the University and described the 2025 cohort as the largest group of DVM graduates ever inducted at a single ceremony. He urged the new professionals to contribute actively to the advancement of veterinary medicine in Nigeria.

The highlight of the ceremony was the administration of the professional oath by the Acting Registrar of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, Dr. Oladotun Afadipe. This was followed by the presentation of awards and cash prizes to outstanding graduates.