MDCN warns new doctors against social media misconduct, threatens sanctions
The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has issued a strong warning to newly inducted medical doctors, cautioning against reckless conduct on social media and unprofessional behaviour. Registrar of
- From Yinka Adeniran, Ibadan
The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has issued a strong warning to newly inducted medical doctors, cautioning against reckless conduct on social media and unprofessional behaviour.
Registrar of the Council, Fatima Kyari, said violations would attract strict disciplinary measures, stressing that the medical profession demands a high standard of responsibility and decorum.
Kyari, who spoke through the Council’s Deputy Registrar, Dr Abdul Enejer, at the induction of 51 medical doctors and dental surgeons at the University of Ibadan, said practitioners must exercise restraint, particularly in the digital space.
She warned that inappropriate online conduct, unprofessional behaviour, or misrepresentation of professional status could lead to sanctions.
According to her, the Council actively monitors practitioners and will not hesitate to enforce ethical standards where breaches are identified.
Kyari added that the expectations placed on medical professionals go beyond those of the general public, requiring consistent discipline both offline and online.
“If you decide to be rowdier than the public or act irresponsibly, we are waiting for you,” she cautioned.
She further explained that induction into the profession marks the beginning of a lifelong commitment to ethical conduct, accountability, and service to humanity, rather than a mere ceremonial milestone.
Kyari noted that society places immense trust in medical professionals, expecting them to demonstrate discipline, maturity, and sound judgment in both their personal and professional lives.
She warned that failure to uphold these expectations could damage not only individual reputations but also public confidence in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
She also cautioned against falsely presenting oneself as a fully registered doctor, stressing that such actions constitute a serious breach that could jeopardize future career prospects.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Kayode Adebowale, represented by the Provost of the College of Medicine, Temidayo Ogundiran, described the ceremony as “a celebration of victory over adversity,” noting that the graduates’ achievements were earned through resilience and perseverance.
He encouraged the inductees to face the future with confidence and contribute meaningfully to institutional development, including supporting initiatives such as the Global Sponsor Student Programme and the Student Building Project.
Also speaking, the Chief Medical Director of the University College Hospital, Professor Jesse Otegbayo, reminded the new doctors that they were entering a noble profession dedicated to preserving life and promoting health.
He urged them to uphold integrity, humility, and professionalism, while emphasizing the need for continuous learning in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment.
He called on them to remain disciplined, adaptable, and collaborative, as they represent their institutions both within Nigeria and internationally.
Reflecting on the journey of the graduates, the Dean of Clinical Sciences, Professor Taiwo Lawal, commended their courage and perseverance, describing resilience as a critical quality for success in medical practice.
He expressed confidence that the same determination demonstrated during their training would sustain them throughout their careers, urging them to remain committed to professionalism, service, and lifelong learning as they transition into full-fledged healthcare practitioners.
