PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Elelenwo, Rivers State, marked a significant milestone on Tuesday, becoming the first university in the state to produce certified radiographers. Five pioneer graduates were inducted into the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN), a historic achievement for the university and the state.
With four female and one male graduate, PAMO University also became only the second institution in the South-South region, after the University of Calabar, to offer this sought-after program in radiography. The newly inducted radiographers, Belema Favour Princewill, Nwanebu Favour Ikenna, Princess Chinenwo Nyemu, Tamunomiebi Luke Obie, and Zion Praise Chukwudi-James, completed their studies in a record five years.
Speaking at the induction ceremony, Dr. Peter Odili, Pro-Chancellor of PAMO University and former Governor of Rivers State, highlighted the university’s growing impact on the healthcare sector. “In just seven years, PAMO University has made a significant contribution to society by training dependable medical professionals,” Odili stated, adding that the university has earned the distinction of being the first in Rivers State to graduate radiographers.
Dr. Odili also underscored the pivotal role of the South-South region in Nigeria’s economy, asserting that without the participation of the region, the country would struggle to thrive. “If you withdraw the South-South, Nigeria will collapse,” he remarked. “Despite contributing so much, the people of the South-South receive far less in return.”
In a surprise announcement, Dr. Odili offered automatic employment to the newly inducted radiographers. “You will not be unemployed for even a day. To whom much is given, much is expected. Now, it’s your turn to redefine your profession in the South-South,” he said, urging the graduates to treat every patient with the utmost care and dedication.
Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Abdulrhaman Sambo, hailed the event as a historic moment, emphasizing that only PAMO University and the University of Calabar offer radiography programs in the entire South-South. The Rivers State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, represented by RSUTH Chief Medical Director Dr. Chizindu Alliko, echoed this sentiment, assuring the graduates of immediate internship opportunities at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH).
The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates to the newly inducted radiographers, with Belema Princewill recognized as the best graduating student. Prof. Mark Okeji, Registrar of the RRBN, presented the award.
With this achievement, PAMO University has solidified its role as a key player in advancing healthcare education in Rivers State, and the South-South region as a whole.
