Overcoming Hunger And Hardship, Dr. Chidera Ugoh Emerges Best Medical Graduate At Guu
... Bags ₦2 Million Founder’s Award and Other Honours
UMUAHIA – At just 22 years old, Dr. Chidera Ugoh from Umueze Umuhu in Ngor Okpala LGA, Imo State, has been named the Overall Best Graduating Medical Student of Gregory University Uturu (GUU), Abia State. This recognition came during the institution’s third induction ceremony for medical doctors held on Wednesday.
In honor of her outstanding academic performance, Dr. Ugoh was awarded ₦2 million by the university’s founder, Professor Gregory Ibe, alongside other prizes.
In her heartfelt valedictory speech, Dr. Ugoh recounted her difficult journey through medical school, marked by hunger, hardship, and emotional struggles. Fighting back tears, she praised her mother, Mrs. Prisca Ekeh, as the unwavering support behind her success.
“There were days I studied without food and nights I felt like giving up. I faced fear, lack, and self-doubt, but God remained faithful. And my mother never left my side,” she shared.
In an exclusive interview, Dr. Ugoh revealed that her mother made enormous sacrifices, including selling personal belongings, to fund her medical education. This, she said, fueled her determination to succeed.
“My mother gave up so much for me. Many times I cried, feeling I couldn’t go on. But her sacrifices, and the support from family, friends, and God, kept me going,” she said.
“I worked tirelessly to make my mother proud, and I will continue to do so. I’ve promised myself to repay every sacrifice she made—she will never suffer again.”
Dr. Ugoh began her journey at GUU at the age of 14. Now a medical doctor, she plans to begin her internship in Abuja, with aspirations to specialize in either Ophthalmology (Surgery) or Community Medicine.
When asked about the possibility of practicing abroad, she responded honestly:
“If I get the chance, I will leave. Nigeria doesn’t truly value hard work.”
On avoiding distractions, particularly from male admirers during her studies, she explained:
“There will always be distractions, especially as a woman. But with God’s guidance and wisdom, it’s possible to remain focused and avoid people who may derail your goals.”
Meanwhile, during the induction of 83 new doctors, the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) vowed to take strict action against unethical medical practices. Speaking on behalf of the MDCN Registrar, Dr. Fatima Kyari, Dr. Tijjani Mandaka warned:
“Any doctor found guilty of unethical conduct risks losing their license.”
Dr. Kyari emphasized that medicine requires not just technical knowledge, but also compassion and humility. She urged the inductees to apply promptly for their mandatory one-year housemanship, warning that failure to do so within two years would require them to revalidate their qualification through an exam.
She also stressed collaboration with nurses, accurate medical documentation, and consulting senior colleagues when uncertain.
Professor Celestina Njoku, the Vice Chancellor of GUU, encouraged the graduates to maintain the values instilled in them and to embrace technology to advance healthcare delivery.
“The world needs medical professionals who combine skill and empathy—those who recognize the human story behind every illness,” she said.
Professor Augustine Uwakwe, the Pro-Chancellor, praised the progress made by the university, including full accreditation of its medical programs.
“Our mission to provide quality tertiary education is on course. We’re building a university that competes globally,” he affirmed.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Founder, Professor Gregory Ibe, Professor Uwaoma Uche reiterated the university’s commitment to human empowerment, especially in medicine. He called on the new doctors to serve as ambassadors of GUU and to contribute to global health solutions.
Chancellor Okechukwu Gregory Ibeh, Jr., congratulated the graduates and urged them to pursue lifelong learning. He also formally announced the ₦2 million award presented to Dr. Ugoh in recognition of her academic excellence.