The Best Graduating Student gets N500k: Highlights of the Maiden Radiography Induction Ceremony in UNIBEN

History was made on 29th July, 2025, at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) as the Department of Radiography hosted its first-ever Oath-Taking and Induction Ceremony.

The ceremony began on a graceful note as the inductees walked into the auditorium in an orderly line, their steps reflected pride and the gravity of the occasion. After, the Akin Deko auditorium resonated with the National Anthem and the UNIBEN Anthem.

The Inspiring Words of the Head of Department

The Head of Department, Dr. (Mrs.) F. O. Igbinedion, delivered the opening speech, congratulating the inductees and the department on on how far they’d come. She recounted the challenges faced along the journey, particularly the struggles of gaining accreditation and the tremendous effort required to establish the department firmly within the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences.

Dignitaries were well-represented at the ceremony, including the Vice Chancellor, Registrar, Provost, Deans, and various Heads of Departments, all showing their support for the department’s historic day.

A Grand Celebration of Excellence

The highlight of the day was the awards session, which celebrated academic brilliance and resilience.

Best Graduating Student (BGS)

Elizabeth Igieorobo emerged as the Best Graduating Student, a feat that earned her:

• A cash prize of ₦500,000

• Automatic employment

• Free entry to a Radiography Board conference

• Additional awards from the department and partner bodies

In her valedictory speech, Elizabeth shared her journey candidly: how she originally applied for Optometry, only to find herself in Radiography along with many of her classmates. At first uncertain about the course, they gradually adapted, even as they faced major challenges such as limited lecturers and interrupted clinical postings. Lecturers from the UK stepped in to assist when the department needed support, and by their 500-level year, with the arrival of a new HOD, accreditation was finally secured.

Other Award Recipients

The department and the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN) also recognized outstanding students in various categories:

• Best in Radiography Equipment: Peter Olamide Akanji
• Best in Radiographic Imaging: Peter Olamide Akanji
• Best in Radiographic Technique: Ohifeme Enoch Okun
• Best in Other Imaging Modalities: Prosper Chimaobi Ndubuisi
• Best in Clinicals: Peter Olamide Akanji
• Best in Research Methodology: Elizabeth Igieorobo
• Best in Radiation Physics (tie): Osaretin Anthony Iyekeoetin & Elizabeth Igieorobo
• Best in Radiotherapy: Titilayo Abosede Ijabiyi
• Best Behaved Student: Adaeze Esther Odo

In addition, another body honored the Best and Second Best Graduating Students with ₦100,000 each, further affirming the department’s culture of recognizing hard work and dedication.

The Department of Radiography also go One Million Naira for the growth, improvement and smooth running of the department.

A Profession With Purpose

The keynote lecture reminded inductees of the vital role radiographers play in healthcare, describing them as “the eyes that see beyond what doctors can see.” It highlighted the diverse career paths in radiography and encouraged the new professionals to explore the breadth of opportunities available in the field.

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Okungbowa, leaving the graduates inspired and motivated to excel in their chosen careers.

We witnessed the first ever induction of the Department of Radiography in UNIBEN, and they set the bar so high! Oh, how well they did.

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