Joy, learning, and nostalgia filled the air at the maiden Induction and Valedictory Ceremony of the BSc Anatomy graduands, fondly known as The Meisters 2024, at Nnamdi Azikiwe University. The celebrants were officially inducted into the Anatomical Society of Nigeria (ASN), marking the beginning of their professional journey.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, represented by the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. Gerald Udigwe, chaired the event. In his address, he commended the graduands for their dedication and pledged continued support for anatomy education, announcing plans for a state-of-the-art ICT center on the medical campus. The Dean of Basic Medical Sciences, Prof. Ngozi Okpogba, urged the students to maintain strong ties with the university and contribute to its growth. Dr. Uzozie Ofoego, Head of the Anatomy Department, encouraged the graduands to seize every opportunity and assured them of unwavering support.
A keynote address by ASN President, Prof. S.B. Danborno, themed “Charting the Future: From Anatomical Studies to Global Health Impact,” provided a roadmap for leveraging anatomical knowledge in global health. He also called for modern teaching tools, such as virtual dissection tables, to enhance learning. Dr. Chrys Promesse Kaniki highlighted Africa CDC’s initiatives and encouraged the graduands to contribute to public health advancements. A peer inspiration session by Mr. Joseph Ojighoro, motivated students towards innovation in medical technology, with a promise of mentorship for interested graduates.
The highlight of the event was the recognition of outstanding students. Chukwuma Maryqueen Ugochi emerged as the best overall graduand, receiving a ₦200,000 cash prize. Notably, Jemimas Think Tank Initiative pledged ₦400,000 to support advanced training in embryology for the best student in embryology. Course awards were sponsored by academic staff in anatomy and organizations, including Mr. Sylvester Anichebe, Viva Fertility Clinic, and Bright Medic Empower.
Nine society awards were presented to individuals excelling in various fields:
Award of Excellence in Medical Technology Innovation – Mr. Joseph Ojighoro (Founder/CEO OJ Technology Ltd., Nigeria)
Traditional Heritage and Leadership Award – HRH Igwe Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III (Igwe of Nnewi kingdom)
Educational Impact Award – Dr Isaac Olufadewa (CEO & Founder, Slum and Rural Health Initiative, Nigeria)
Grassroot Leadership and Talent Development – Dr. Chibueze Lawrence Ofobuike (Mayor, Aguata LGA Anambra State, Nigeria)
Real Estate Leadership Award – ESV Arnold Chukwuebuka Ekweoba (CEO, Arnold and Associates, Nigeria)
Healthcare Leadership Award – Dr. Ikenna Okafor (CEO, Universal Dental, USA)
Financial Technology – Mr. Linus Williams Ifejika (Executive chairman, B-Lord Group, Nigeria)
Youth in Public health Leadership Award – Dr. Chrys Promesse K. Kaniki (Senior Technical Officer for Strategic Programmes, Youth Programme Lead, Africa CDC, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)
Distinguished Alumnus Award – Ugada Nelly (Director of Operations, LaGran Justicia Ltd.)
Distinguished service awards were also presented to esteemed faculty members for their contributions to anatomy and medical education, including:
Prof Gerald Udigwe – Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Provost, College of Health Sciences
Prof. Azuoma Lasbrey Asomugha – Professor of Anatomy and Director, University Health Services
Prof. Ukoha Ukoha – Professor of Anatomy
Prof. Ngozi Aloysius Okpogba – Professor of Biochemistry and Environmental Toxicology and Dean of Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences
Prof. Samuel Chukwuemeka Meludu – Professor of Clinical Biochemistry
Dr Uzozie Chikere Ofoego – Reader, and HOD, Anatomy
The event also featured the launch of the “Light up Anatomy” project, with an initial sum of ₦500,000, aiming to enhance departmental resources. A call was made by the department to all and sundry to support the project. Additional highlights included the cutting of the valedictory cake, musical performances, spoken word presentations, and the distribution of branded gifts from the American Association for Anatomy.
This landmark event was well-attended by university officials, faculty, family, friends, and well-wishers, celebrating the achievements and promising futures of The Meisters 2024.
