The Registrar/Chief Executive of the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN), Prof. Mark Okeji, has raised alarm over the increasing threat of poor remuneration and the “japa syndrome” to the practice of radiography in the country.
Speaking on Wednesday at Gregory University, Uturu, during the induction of the university’s pioneer graduates of radiography, Okeji disclosed that inadequate pay and the migration of trained radiographers in search of greener pastures remain major challenges in the sector.
“Inadequate remuneration has led to significant trained radiographer migration to other countries to look for greener pastures,” Okeji said, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Macaulay Ejimofor (Head Institute Department).
He urged the government and relevant stakeholders to provide better incentives for health workers, stressing that training and fair remuneration were key to discouraging the exodus of radiographers.
“Radiography is both an art and a science. It demands not only technical competence and precision but also empathy, ethical discipline, and continuous learning and informing,” he added.
Reflecting on his tenure, the Registrar highlighted the progress made by the RRBN over the past eight years.
“When I assumed office as Registrar eight years ago, Nigeria had only seven universities accredited to train radiographers. Today, through the collective efforts of stakeholders, we have eighteen accredited universities, including four private institutions, offering radiography.
In the past eight years, the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria has undergone a remarkable transformation. We have modernised our accreditation processes, strengthened the indexing and examination systems, digitised records, improved compliance monitoring, and expanded opportunities for postgraduate and continuing professional development.
These reforms were guided by a singular vision to ensure that every radiographer trained and licensed in Nigeria is globally competitive, ethically upright, and technically sound.”
Okeji commended Gregory University for its commitment to high-quality training, compliance with regulatory standards, and investment in modern imaging facilities, describing the induction of its first set of radiographers as a milestone for the private education sector.
In his remarks, the Founder and Proprietor of Gregory University, Prof. Gregory Ibe, expressed pride in the institution’s achievements.
“This milestone marks a significant achievement not only for the graduates but also for our university as we continue to make impactful strides in training health professionals for Nigeria and beyond.
Today marks more than just a beginning; it is a testament to the founder’s vision, dedication, and unwavering belief that brought this moment into being.
I ask that you embrace a problem-solving spirit and expand on the tools and systems that allow you to be a successful radiologist.”
Recalling recent academic milestones, Prof. Ibe noted that the university had recently graduated 83 medical doctors, 21 nurses and midwives, and two physiotherapists, further cementing its role in producing highly skilled healthcare professionals.
The Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, reminded the inductees of the vital role they will play in modern healthcare.
“Radiography is more than just a discipline; it is a vital component of modern medicine. Your expertise will play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating patients, and your work will impact countless lives.”
Similarly, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Celestina Njoku, emphasized the importance of compassion and integrity in professional practice.
“You are stepping into a profession that calls for not only your knowledge and skill but also compassion, integrity and humility. The world needs healthcare professionals who are not only knowledgeable but also empathetic and who can listen and understand the human body language behind every illness.”
The Head of the Radiology Department, Dr. Christopher O. Arimie, also underscored the responsibilities that come with the profession.
“Being a professional radiographer comes with a lot of responsibilities and commitment in healthcare. The role set embodies the spirit of compassion, dedication, and excellence. You are a part of the decision-making process that affects the healthy lives of others. You are, therefore, expected to practise your trade with a high sense of responsibility and decorum.”
The event marked a historic milestone for Gregory University, as its first set of radiography graduates took the professional oath, pledging to uphold the highest standards in their service to humanity.