UI Inducts First Set of Environmental Health Officers

The University of Ibadan (UI) has marked a historic milestone by inducting its first-ever set of environmental health officers into professional practice. Fourteen graduates were formally welcomed into the field in a ceremony described as both symbolic and significant for Nigeria’s public health landscape.

Speaking during the induction, the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale — represented by Professor Oyeronke Odunola, Dean of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences — highlighted the critical role of environmental health science in safeguarding communities. He emphasized that the inductees were not only academic pioneers but custodians of a profession essential to the nation’s well-being.

“This induction is more than a ceremony; it’s the beginning of a legacy. As the first cohort, you are entrusted with upholding excellence and integrity in a field that directly impacts lives,” Professor Adebowale stated.

Dr Yakubu Mohammed, Registrar of the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON), whose address was delivered by Mrs Lawal Abudulai, urged the new professionals to let their oath and ethical code guide their practice, stressing the importance of cleanliness, responsibility, and community leadership in environmental health.

“You are now ambassadors of a cleaner, safer Nigeria. Your discipline, conduct, and contribution must reflect the dignity of this profession,” Abudulai charged.

Mrs Florence Daramola, EHCON South-West Zonal Director, administered the code of professional ethics to the inductees. She reminded them of their obligations — from observing proper dress codes to demonstrating respect and discipline in their professional conduct.

Dr Temitope Laniyan, Acting Head of the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, delivered a hopeful message, calling on the inductees to become agents of innovation and service.

“You are stepping into a field where science meets service. As the first to be inducted, you set the tone for what the profession becomes at UI and beyond. The future of environmental health rests on your shoulders,” she said.

Also present were Professor Samuel Omokhodion, President of the Ibadan College of Medicine Alumni Association (ICOMAA) Worldwide, and other dignitaries who emphasized the importance of continued learning, community service, and contribution to the development of their alma mater.