The International College of Surgeons, Nigeria Section (ICS-NG), has called on newly inducted fellows to maintain integrity, professionalism, and humanitarian service in their medical careers. The college also advised them to treat patients with compassion and without discrimination based on religion, ethnicity, or other differences.
Charge from the President
Prof. Bernard Jiburum, President of ICS-NG, delivered this charge during the induction ceremony of new fellows at the 59th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference in Abuja. Jiburum emphasized that the college was established on the principles of humanitarian service and urged the inductees to make themselves available to serve all members of society, especially the underprivileged.
He stated, “The bedrock of the International College of Surgeons is humanitarian service. You should see patients as people who need your expertise and offer them the best care possible. In doing so, you will find fulfilment in service.”
Jiburum also encouraged the new fellows to stay active in college affairs by participating in regional activities and annual scientific conferences, noting that such engagements offer opportunities for continuous learning, knowledge sharing, and professional development.
Call to Embrace Humanitarian Philosophy
The President-Elect of ICS-NG, Dr Grace Nwana, urged the inductees to adopt the college's humanitarian philosophy and contribute meaningfully to community health. She encouraged them to initiate medical outreach programmes within their areas of expertise to improve access to healthcare services.
“The college is run on humanitarian principles. Always make yourself available whenever you are called upon to serve. You can also start medical outreach projects in areas where you can make a difference,” she said.
Commitment to Patient Welfare
Prof. Alexander Nwafor, a Professor of Urology and college member, described ICS as a noble surgical institution dedicated to saving lives through accessible healthcare services. He urged the fellows to prioritize patient welfare above all else and continually enhance their knowledge through collaboration and professional networking.
Nwafor noted that the college provides a platform for members to publish research findings and contribute to advancements in surgical practice. He also disclosed that the college is constructing a permanent secretariat in Abuja, which will serve as a hub for professional activities and collaboration among members.
“Your induction should mark the beginning of active participation in the college. We want to see your impact and contributions to the growth of the institution. Always promote the ideals of ICS wherever you find yourself,” he said.
Inductee's Perspective
One of the inductees, Deputy Comptroller of Nigeria Customs Service, Sunusi Garba-Rimi, described his admission into the fellowship as a major milestone in his medical career. Garba-Rimi, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, said the fellowship has expanded his opportunities to contribute to healthcare delivery and humanitarian services.
He commended the leadership of the Nigerian section for making the fellowship more accessible to Nigerian surgeons and specialists, noting that obtaining a similar qualification abroad would have been significantly more expensive. Garba-Rimi called on all levels of government to support the college's activities, particularly in research, surgical innovation, and capacity building, to address the growing surgical needs of Nigerians and improve access to affordable healthcare services.
