Pamo University of Medical Sciences Celebrates First Graduates of Radiography in Rivers State
Pamo University of Medical Sciences in Rivers State made history by graduating the first qualified radiographers trained in the state during an induction ceremony on October 30, 2024.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
Pamo University of Medical Sciences, located in Elelenwo, Rivers State, marked a historic milestone on Tuesday by graduating the first qualified radiographers trained in the state. The event witnessed the induction of five graduates into the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN), establishing Pamo University as the second institution in the South-South region to offer a degree in radiography, following the University of Calabar.
The pioneering graduates, who completed their studies in a record time of five years, include four females—Belema Favour Princewill, Nwanebu Favour Ikenna, Princess Chinenwo Nyemu Tamunomiebi Luke Obie—and one male, Zion Praise Chukwudi-James. Their successful induction is a testament to the university's commitment to producing skilled healthcare professionals.
During the ceremony, Dr. Peter Odili, the Pro-Chancellor of Pamo University and former Governor of Rivers State, highlighted the institution's impact on society since its establishment seven years ago. He emphasized the critical role of the South-South region in Nigeria's economic development, stating, "Without the participation and inclusion of the South-South region, Nigeria would collapse." Dr. Odili acknowledged the significant contributions of the region, despite its people facing challenges in accessing the benefits of the resources they provide.
In an uplifting announcement, he assured the graduates of immediate employment opportunities, declaring, "I have good news for you, you will not be unemployed for one day." He encouraged them to embrace their roles with dedication and ethical integrity, reminding them that their patients are their true employers.
Dr. Abdulrhaman Sambo, the chairman of the occasion, noted the historical significance of the event, emphasizing that Pamo University, alongside the University of Calabar, is now a leading institution in the field of radiography in the South-South region.
Rivers State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, represented by the Chief Medical Director of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH), Dr. Chizindu Alliko, pledged immediate internship opportunities for the graduates at RSUTH. She commended Pamo University for its contributions to healthcare manpower development in the state and reiterated the Ministry of Health's commitment to partnering with the institution.
The highlight of the induction and oath-taking ceremony included the presentation of certificates to the newly inducted radiographers, with an award presented to the best graduating student, Belema Princewill, by the Registrar of the RRBN, Prof. Mark Okeji.
Pamo University of Medical Sciences continues to pave the way for healthcare education in Rivers State, and the successful induction of these graduates marks a significant step forward in meeting the growing demand for skilled radiographers in Nigeria.
