The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria ([MDCN](https://www.mdcno.gov.ng)) issued a formal warning to sixteen newly inducted doctors from [Rhema University](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhema_University) during a ceremony in Aba on October 9, 2026, stressing that any breach of professional conduct will be investigated and may lead to sanctions such as suspension or removal from the register.
Key facts:
- The induction took place in Aba and was led by MDCN Registrar Prof. Fatima Kyari, represented by Tijani Ali Mandaka.
- The council highlighted that medicine is among the most heavily regulated professions, overseen by the council, the public, and relevant government agencies.
- Two disciplinary organs exist: the Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel for preliminary inquiries, and the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal for adjudicating established cases.
- Possible penalties include admonition, suspension, or deregistration, depending on the severity of the offence.
- Prof. Kyari urged the new doctors to treat their housemanship programmes with utmost seriousness as a prerequisite for full registration and certification.
**What are the council’s disciplinary bodies?**
The Investigation Panel conducts initial fact‑finding on alleged misconduct, while the Disciplinary Tribunal reviews cases that merit further action, applying the law and council regulations to determine appropriate sanctions.
**Why is housemanship emphasized?**
The registrar explained that completing the housemanship is a mandatory step for doctors to qualify for full registration with the council, ensuring they acquire practical experience under supervision before independent practice.
During the same event, Prof. Ogbonnaya Onwudike, Vice‑Chancellor of Rhema University, described the induction as a historic milestone and reminded the graduates that their degrees carry a duty to serve humanity with competence and compassion. He praised the council’s role in safeguarding medical education standards.
The university’s Provost, Prof. Maduka James Awa, called on the new doctors to act as ambassadors of the institution, while Chancellor Bro Emma Okorie highlighted the graduates’ readiness to contribute positively to the medical profession. Awards were presented to outstanding students, including best graduating student Dr. Ugwokaegbe Anointing.