Health professionals have been advised to ensure that the growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine strengthens access to quality care rather than deepening existing inequalities in the health system.
The call was made at the 7th convocation ceremony of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo State, where a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, delivered a lecture on preparing Nigeria’s health workforce for an AI-driven future.
Speaking on the theme of adapting to emerging clinical realities, Ogundipe said technology is rapidly transforming medical practice, particularly in diagnosis, patient triage, disease prediction and hospital administration. He noted that AI has moved from being experimental to becoming an active tool in healthcare delivery worldwide.
He emphasised that for Nigeria to fully benefit from these advancements, medical institutions must prioritise digital competence, regulatory oversight and continuous training for health workers. According to him, the responsible integration of AI requires strong governance frameworks and systems that protect patients’ rights and ensure equitable access.
Ogundipe urged healthcare practitioners to combine innovation with compassion, stressing that technology should complement human expertise rather than replace it. He added that the future of medicine in Nigeria will depend on deliberate policy decisions, investment in research, and capacity building.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening education, research and healthcare development as part of efforts to enhance human capital in the state. He said improving the quality of medical training institutions remains central to building a resilient health system.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of UNIMED’s Governing Council, Ayodele Arowojolu, highlighted the institution’s focus on research, innovation and improved healthcare outcomes, while appealing for additional infrastructural support to address developmental needs.
He noted that the university continues to expand and requires sustained investment to fully develop its main campus, including improved road access and other facilities.
The Vice-Chancellor of UNIMED, Prof. Ebunoluwa Adejuyigbe, congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to uphold the values and training acquired during their studies. She also outlined recent infrastructural and digital upgrades at the institution, including improved internet connectivity, solar-powered facilities, and ongoing campus development projects supported by the state government.
She expressed appreciation for continued collaboration with government authorities, noting that such partnerships remain vital to advancing medical education and strengthening healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
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