Medical Worker Issues Strong Warning Against Studying Medicine at UI and OAU
A Nigerian medical professional has issued a stark warning to prospective students, urging them to avoid studying medicine and surgery at two of Nigeria's most prestigious universities: the University of Ibadan (UI) and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).
Concerns About Extended Study Duration
In a Facebook post dated February 18, William Oyelakin, who appears to work at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, expressed his concerns about the time it takes to complete medical studies at these institutions. He specifically cautioned that students might spend more years than necessary pursuing their degrees.
"Run from University of Ibadan & OAU Medicine & Surgery if you don't want to graduate at old age," Oyelakin wrote in his post. "Forget best ooo, best is not recognized in your earnings, don't waste your youth in school."
Reputation Versus Practical Considerations
While acknowledging that both UI and OAU are reputable institutions, Oyelakin argued that their prestige does not necessarily translate to better career outcomes or justify extended study periods. He suggested that prospective medical students should consider private universities as alternatives for completing their education more efficiently.
The medical worker's warning implies that the medical programs at these public universities take significantly longer than comparable programs at other institutions, potentially delaying graduates' entry into the workforce and professional practice.
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
The controversial warning has sparked diverse reactions across social media platforms, with users sharing their own experiences and opinions about medical education in Nigeria.
- Ridwanallahi Abubakar commented: "They are better. ABU Zaria and BUK are worst of."
- Sunusi Usman responded: "ABU Zaria is the worst of all. Imagine U19 are still in 400L, while their mate in Unimaid are in 600L and 500L in BUK."
- Oluwatosin Oluwatosin agreed: "Na true talk Oau and Ui will make extend 6 years to 8 years and 6 months."
- Ibrahim Abdus Salam added another perspective: "Are you aware of LAUTECH?"
Context of Institutional Rankings
This warning comes despite recent recognition for these institutions. According to Times Higher Education rankings released in January, the University of Ibadan reclaimed its position as Nigeria's top-ranked university, placing in the 801 to 1000 global band. The 2026 rankings evaluated 2,191 universities worldwide using 18 performance indicators across teaching, research environment, research quality, industry engagement, and international outlook.
UI's resurgence marked a return to the summit after slipping in previous years, displacing Covenant University which had led Nigerian institutions in both 2024 and 2025 rankings. OAU also maintains strong recognition among Nigerian universities.
Broader Implications for Medical Education
The discussion raises important questions about the balance between institutional reputation and practical considerations in medical education. While prestigious universities often provide excellent training, extended study durations can have significant implications for students' career timelines and financial situations.
This controversy highlights ongoing debates about the structure of medical education in Nigeria and whether traditional public universities need to streamline their programs to remain competitive with private institutions that may offer more accelerated paths to medical degrees.
