Governor Okpebholo Pledges Swift Resolution of AAU Medical Graduates’ Induction Delay, Repositions Ambrose Alli University for Excellence

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has assured the 167 medical graduates of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, that his administration will urgently address the delay in their induction into the medical profession. The graduates, who completed their studies in August 2024 after a protracted 10-year journey, have been unable to commence their mandatory housemanship due to the delay.

The governor, during a brief stopover at the institution’s gate in Ekpoma, empathized with the graduates and pledged immediate action to resolve the issue. “As a father, I deeply understand your frustrations. My administration is committed to ensuring that Edo citizens, including our young medical professionals, receive the best support. I will engage with the acting Vice Chancellor to chart a path forward,” Governor Okpebholo assured.

Spokesperson for the graduates, Precious Omohegbele, highlighted their plight, stating, “We are the 2015 set of medical students of AAU, and we graduated on August 15, 2024. Despite spending 10 years in medical school, we have yet to be inducted. We appeal to the governor to help resolve this crisis and ensure our induction so we can begin our housemanship.”

Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to resolving the delay reflects his administration’s broader efforts to reposition AAU and address the challenges inherited from the previous administration. Under the former leadership, the state-owned university faced issues such as lack of funding, non-payment of salaries, non-accreditation of courses, and governance crises. Policies implemented by a Special Intervention Team (SIT) exacerbated these problems, leading to staff dismissals, union strikes, and increased tuition fees.

Since assuming office, Governor Okpebholo has implemented bold reforms to restore AAU’s reputation and functionality. He ordered the immediate reinstatement of all staff dismissed in March 2023, acknowledging the injustices faced by workers protesting unfavorable labor practices. The governor’s actions have renewed hope for students and staff, with his administration prioritizing the university’s accreditation, funding, and structural growth.

In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, the administration reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the lingering challenges at AAU. “This government is determined to reposition Ambrose Alli University as a beacon of academic excellence and to ensure that its students and staff receive the support they deserve,” the statement read.

Governor Okpebholo’s intervention in the induction crisis and his broader reforms at AAU demonstrate his administration’s dedication to fostering education and professional development in Edo State. With a focus on tangible solutions and sustainable growth, the governor is setting a new standard for governance that prioritizes the welfare of the people.