01. AMSA WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE TEAM AT THE 11TH INAUGURAL CEREMONY
The AMSA community gathered for the 11th Inaugural Ceremony to officially welcome the New Executive Committee of the 11th administration. Held under an air of excitement and optimism, the event was graced by the presence of notable figures, including The Provost; Dr. Laofe Ogundipe, The Head of Department Biochemistry, Dr. Benjamin Akawa, The Dean of Allied Health Sciences, ABUAD Staff Adviser; Dr. Enye Linus, The College Officer; Dr. Egbebi, The Coordinator of Clinical Sciences; Dr. Ezekpo Okeke, The President-Elect of COMHSSA; Ogunlana Emmanuel Olamilekan amongst presidents of other college associations including the College of Engineering and the College of Sciences.
The ceremony opened with a heartfelt speech from The Provost who praised the achievements of AMSA over the past year during the “Tenure of Greatness” and acknowledged the dedication of both outgoing executives and current members. In his address, The Provost emphasized the importance of integrity, passion and innovation, calling upon the newly inaugurated executives to embody these values as they take AMSA to the “next level”. His closing remarks, “Change is permanent”, left a lasting impression on all present.
“CHANGE IS PERMANENT”
Following The Provost’s address, the AMSEC Chairman, Duogbuluma Awoibim Jessica, took the stage to congratulate the newly elected executives on their recent electoral success. She led them in taking the oath of office, marking the official transition of leadership. The swearing-in process was conducted using a call-and-response method, beginning with the executive positions and followed by the senate positions. This was followed by the formal presentation of ID cards by The Provost, introducing the new leadership team, including Ige Temitope as the President and Onyewuchi Vincent as the Vice president and Academic Director amongst many others.
In his address, Dr. Enye Linus offered sagacious advice to the new executives, encouraging them to seize their leadership positions for the advancement of AMSA. His words, “Keep the flag flying”, resonated with the audience and also served as a challenge to the new leadership to uphold the association’s standards.
“Keep the flag flying”
–Dr. Enye Linus
Dr. Oghenekaro Ifoto, former AMSA president, took the stage as well, with notable insights on leadership challenges and the weight of balancing academics with association duties. In his speech, he announced the renewal of the AMSA constitution and praised his team for their unwavering support throughout his tenure. He assured the executives that they were well equipped to carry AMSA forward with excellence, continuing the legacy of progress.
The newly inaugurated President, Dr. Ige Temitope, then gave an inspiring speech, expressing her gratitude to her mentors, superiors, and colleagues for their support. She promised to advocate for her colleagues, foster an inclusive environment, and lead with a vision that goes beyond academic excellence to elevate the entire medical student community. She concluded with the words, “Together, let us embark on a new beginning”.
The ceremony ended with a heartfelt closing prayer by Jabir Suleiman, the outgoing Vice President. He expressed appreciation for all attendees and offered blessings for the incoming executives. The afternoon was a celebration of AMSA’s past achievements and a hopeful look towards its future under the new leadership.
Written by,
Bello Noah,
Assistant Editor-In-Chief.
02. THE PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS
INVICTUS, a Latin word that means “unconquered” or “undefeated,” often symbolizes strength, resilience, and the ability to overcome challenges. The medical journey requires determination and tenacity to overcome the daily obstacles we face. Thus, AMSA embraces the movement ‘INVICTUS’ as we continually push through as students, friends, colleagues and together as an association.
Ige Temitope Racheal
Current President AMSA
It is with immense joy and profound gratitude that I write to you as the newly inaugurated President of our Medical Students’ Association. This role is not merely a title; it is a solemn commitment to serve, lead, and cultivate a vibrant community where every voice is heard, every idea is cherished, and every individual feels valued. As your President, I pledge to navigate the challenges of medical school with you. I will advocate for our collective needs—be it a need for enhanced resources, mentorship opportunities, or a healthier balance between our rigorous studies and personal well-being. Together, we will foster an environment where everyone feels supported and empowered to realize their fullest potential.
“Communication is the cornerstone of our success“
I urge each of you to share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns with
us—your elected representatives—so that we can serve you better.
Communication is the cornerstone of our success, and your active
participation and constant feedback will be vital in making Project
INVICTUS, a resounding success. Thank you, for your unwavering
support and for placing your trust in me, once again. Now, more than
ever. I, Ige Temitope Racheal, am committed to protecting your
interests, upholding the values that guide our association, and
fostering innovations that enhance our mission.
On behalf of the 11th Governing Council. Thank you for your
continued trust and support. Together, let us embark on this journey
with determination and enthusiasm.
Cheers, To a new beginning, to Success, and to a greater AMSA.
Project INVICTUS has now officially begun!
Ige Temitope Racheal
11th President
Afe Babalola University Medical Students’ Association.
03. TAKING A BOW; THE EX PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS
My Journey as President of the ABUAD Medical Students’ Association (AMSA)
Reflecting on my tenure as the 10th President of the ABUAD Medical Students’ Association (AMSA), I am filled with a deep sense of fulfillment and gratitude. Leading this remarkable association has been one of the most enriching experiences of my medical journey. It not only sharpened my leadership skills but it also taught me the power of teamwork, resilience, and vision in achieving meaningful goals
Dr. Oghenekaro Samuel Ifoto
10th President AMSA
When I assumed office, my primary focus was to foster a culture of inclusiveness, collaboration, and innovation among ABUAD medical students. I believed that for our association to thrive, it needed to embody the values of professionalism, service, and academic excellence. These guiding principles influenced every decision and action taken during my tenure.
ACHIEVEMENTS AND MILESTONES
As the outgoing President of the Association of Medical Students, Afe Babalola University (AMSA), my tenure has been marked by a series of transformative initiatives, driven by a vision to enhance the well-being, representation, and engagement of our medical student community. From groundbreaking events like the first-ever physical inauguration in over three tenures to impactful welfare projects and innovative fundraising efforts, I have had the privilege of leading a team committed to progress and student empowerment. Our collective efforts have set new standards, and I am proud to reflect on these achievements as we continue to pave the way for future leaders.
THE 10TH AND 11TH AMSA PRESIDENTS
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Of course, leading AMSA was not without its challenges. Balancing the rigorous demands of my final-year in medical school with the responsibilities of managing an association was a delicate dance. There were moments where I questioned my ability to handle both, but it was in those moments that I grew the most. I learned the importance of delegation, trusting my executive team, and staying focused on the larger vision.
One key lesson I took away was the importance of adaptability. Medical students today face challenges that extend beyond the classroom and clinical practice—ranging from mental health concerns to the evolving landscape of medicine. As a leader, I had to ensure AMSA was proactive in addressing these issues by creating safe spaces for dialogue and fostering peer support networks.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
None of the achievements of AMSA during my tenure would have been possible without the incredible team of executives, committee members, and the general body of students who trusted me to lead. I am especially grateful to our faculty advisors for their continuous support and guidance, as well as to every member of AMSA for their contributions and commitment to our shared goals.
As I prepare to graduate and move forward in my career, I am confident that AMSA will continue to thrive. The foundation we have laid is strong, and I trust that future leaders will build on it to take the association to even greater heights.
Being President of AMSA has been an unforgettable chapter in my life. It has prepared me not just as a future physician but as a leader with a heart for service. I leave this role with immense pride in what we accomplished and with excitement for the future of ABUAD’s medical community.
Oghenekaro Samuel Ifoto,
10th AMSA PRESIDENT
04. DAMSELS IN DISTRESS: THE HOSTEL SAGA
Picture this: Rent is due, you’ve got a stable job so scraping up some funds isn’t too much of a problem, but one thing is – your present living conditions. You want a change, a place convenient enough to work the job you have, sleep well and live the productive life you desire. Somewhere worth your money. So, you go searching for one and by fortuity, you find the perfect accommodation or at least one that meets all your expectations to a good degree. Then to your utter dismay, as you were about to move in, you find that you’ve been displaced. Despite being the first to pay for the lodgings, you were dislodged. Your mind swirls in frustration and confusion as you are given a reason: the broker seems to have also sold that same residence to many others and let them in before you. So, you are left with a choice to make – squeeze in with your unplanned roommates or go back to your ill-fitting apartment where living conditions are sub-par and there’s always something to inconvenience you
The current 400 level B female students could, to a reasonable extent, relate to this. They were given the notion that once they crossed over form pre-clinicals, which discontinue after the third year, they would be chanced to move into the medical sector of the school’s campus. But to their collective despair, that never happened and is still yet to.The current 400 level B female students could, to a reasonable extent, relate to this. They were given the notion that once they crossed over form pre-clinicals, which discontinue after the third year, they would be chanced to move into the medical sector of the school’s campus. But to their collective despair, that never happened and is still yet to.
The 400L B class was instructed to resume mid-July and were allocated rooms, on resumption, in the main campus specifically in the A wing of the Female Hostel 1 colloquially called Abuad Hostel. This was assumed to be a temporary arrangement but as the weeks went by, the temporariness of their situation seemed more permanent than not. Being their first year in the clinical side of their medical school, their Block 1posting which is the first clinical posting in medical school, was as tough and hectic as was expected and struggling for convenient living conditions was never thought to be added to the hassle. But as time would tell, there was still more to come.
Weeks into their posting, the were plans underway to renovate the A-wing of the hostel, the wing in which they were currently residing. A new problem arose for new space to occupy that would be both convenient and fair for all the female students. The medical hostels which was their first option didn’t have enough rooms to accommodate all the students and moving to another hostel entirely, still on the main campus, seemed illogical as all the students had classes and practical lessons and study sessions to attend to be able to meet up with the intensely vast syllabus of the clinical part of their medical journey. As debate and negotiations ensued, an agreement was reached to move to the C-wing of their present hostel. This move proved to be as tedious as was feared but being the resilient students they were, they pulled through and were able to get back on their feet in continuing their life as clinical students. All was well for a little while until the commencement of the new school session was looming and all free rooms had to be accounted for, in the ensuing days, many of the girls on the ground floor were forced out of their rooms to move into rooms on other floors in the same wing despite the protests and frustrations, they all had to submit to the school’s authority in the end while only few of them were left alone. At this time, the intense nature of their schoolwork was already taking its heavy toll and many of them and the second move did nothing to abate it. Alas, their plight still had rounds to go. As the new school session finally kicked off, it became evident that there weren’t enough rooms for returning and new students on the main campus especially in the female hostels and the 400 level B Medicine and Surgery female students took the brunt of it. As their male counterparts were successfully moved to rooms in the medical hostels, the girls were contending to be part of that movement. Efforts were made to make the Vice Chancellor to be aware of their situation but to no avail. After bouts of protests and vexed bargains, the students were yet again mandated to move to the B-wing of the hostel this time extending even to the last floor where they currently reside although tentatively. With all these happening in the middle of exam preparations and exhausting class schedules, the girls were disappointed with how unfairly they felt they had been treated and hope that for the sake of their tedious academic workload, the school would be kind enough to let them move to the medical hostels and not to another wing in Abuad Hostel.
05. FRESHER’S WEEKEND 2024!
The Freshers’ Weekend was an unforgettable and vibrant experience that set the perfect tone for the new academic year.
One of the highlights of the weekend was The Walk of Champions, a symbolic and inspiring incentive, took students on a journey across the campus, celebrating the start of their path toward becoming future medical professionals. The walk served as a reminder of the dedication and perseverance required in their chosen field while also instilling a sense of pride in the new students.
And then there was the much-anticipated Freshers’ Orientation, where students were introduced to the department of Medicine and Surgery. They learned everything they needed to know about the program, from the core courses they would be taking to the specialized pathways available within the field. Faculty members provided valuable insights into what to expect, laying a strong foundation for their academic journey.
THE WALK OF CHAMPIONS
The Freshers’ movie night would’ve been just the highlight for many had it not been cancelled due to an unforeseen power outage . It would’ve been a chance for everyone to relax and enjoy a good film together after a busy day of activities. Additionally, various extracurricular activities were offered throughout the weekend, allowing freshers to explore new interests, meet like-minded individuals, and engage in hobbies outside their academic focus.
Overall, the Freshers’ Weekend was a perfect mix of education, entertainment, and exploration, ensuring that the new students felt welcomed, informed, and ready to take on the exciting challenges ahead.
Written by,
Bello Noah,
Assistant Editor-In-Chief.
06. CELEBRATING WORLD AFE BABALOLA DAY: A LEGACY OF IMPACT
In the heart of Ado Ekiti, a remarkable tale unfolds—a tale that echoes through the ages, reminding
us of the profound impact one individual can have on a community. Enter our very own
nonagenarian, a figure whose legacy continues to blossom, even as time moves forward. Like a
dedicated gardener, he planted seeds of knowledge and inspiration, nurturing them into a
magnificent tree under which we all find shade. And as the story goes, the green grass grows all
around, thriving in the richness of his contributions.
AARE AFE BABALOLA
Founder Of ABUAD
Recently, the Ekiti people, under the wise leadership of the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, have added another feather to their cap. The 18th of October has been officially proclaimed World Afe Babalola Day! This is not just a day off from our relentless medical school grind, where sleep often eludes us and our classrooms become our second homes. Oh no, dear friends—this is a day to celebrate the monumental impact one man has had on our lives and our community.
“Afe Babalola didn’t just create ripples; he ignited waves of change“
Now, let’s be honest. Who wouldn’t relish the idea of a holiday from those lectures where our eyelids wage a constant battle against gravity? A chance to finally ditch those early morning classes without the weight of guilt on our shoulders is undeniably tempting! But hold your horses; this day is about so much more than a welcome break. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of Afe Babalola, a man whose influence reaches deep into the fabric of our society.
Afe Babalola didn’t just create ripples; he ignited waves of change. His dedication to education, philanthropy, and community development has laid down roots that will nourish generations to come. We live in the impact of his work, thriving in the opportunities he has created and growing as individuals empowered by his vision.
So, how do we celebrate this day? It’s not just about lounging around in our pyjamas or binging on our favourite series—though let’s be real, that does sound delightful! We must take a moment to recognise and honour the spirit of impact that Afe Babalola embodies. Let’s engage in activities that uplift our community, whether it’s volunteering, sharing stories of his contributions, or even just having conversations that inspire others to make a difference.
In essence, World Afe Babalola Day is a reminder that we are all capable of making an impact, just as he did. As we enjoy our holiday, let’s reflect on how we can plant our own seeds of change in the world around us. After all, every great tree starts as a tiny seed, and who knows? We might just be the next generation of changemakers.
So, here’s to the legacy of Afe Babalola—may we celebrate his contributions, honour his vision, and, most importantly, continue to grow in the spirit of impact he has instilled in us all!
07. NOBEL PRIZE IN MEDICINE AWARDED FOR DISCOVERY OF MICRORNAS, THE MOLECULES THAT CONTROL OUR GENES.
The winners of the 2024 Nobel prize in medicine just unveiled a total plot twist about our genes that has the scientific community on their feet.
This discovery concerns micro RNA, tiny molecules that have been secretly running the show for every living being on earth for millions of years and these two scientist cracked their code.
Victor Ambrose and Gary Ruvkun won for their groundbreaking discovery that revealed that micro RNA is involved in gene regulation. This discovery will change medicine forever.
Until now, the known process for gene regulation was the same set of chromosomes, the same set of genes and thus, exactly the same set of instructions and yet we have different cell types. We have muscle cells, heart cells, all with very distinct features ,so how do these different cell types arrive? The answer is gene regulation, which ensures only the selected and correct genes are active within each cell.
Ambrose and Ruvkun discovered that microRNA has a role to play in gene regulation too. Their research began 31 years ago back in 1993 on round worms, to their surprise , they identified two genes in the worm that did not encode for a protein but was instead a short strand of microRNA . After mapping the life cycle of the micro RNA , they further discovered that it attached itself to a stretch of messenger RNA and blocked a protein from being translated .
This has never been seen before; something else controlling gene regulation and protein synthesis but the big discovery moment was that this was not just happening in worms but in all living being across the earth including humans.
New microRNAs are created in multiple ways. Novel microRNAs can originate from the random formation of hairpins in “non-coding” sections of DNA (i.e. introns or intergenic regions), but also by the duplication and modification of existing microRNAs. MicroRNAs can also form from inverted duplications of protein-coding sequences, which allows for the creation of a foldback hairpin structure.
MicroRNA is a key component in regulating genes virtually in every cell and every tissue, in every plant and animal. Why was this discovery worthy of a Nobel prize ? Because if micro RNA encoded genes exist, they can become mutated just like any other gene, just a single RNA mutation can change the activity of hundreds of other genes and micro RNA have lots of roles in hard-to-treat diseases such as cancer and neurological diseases such Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, so this opens up an entirely new avenue in medicine, especially cancer research, now researchers can target micro RNA by either mimicking it or blocking it in the drug development process to treat for all kind of diseases. We’ve found that some microRNAs are in fact very good at turning off cancer cells so they might even be useful as treatments in themselves.They also have lots of roles in hard-to-treat diseases such as cancer and neurological diseases such Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. All our cells contain the same number of DNA letters called bases – there’s about 3 billion. These tiny little molecules themselves, in fact, help control which of those letters are on or off, how loud that volume switch is and, in doing so, how our own genes behave. Understanding microRNAs could lead to new ways to diagnose diseases earlier, and overall a deeper understanding of how our bodies work.
Written by,
Okeke Chiwendu.
08. FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
INVICTUS
Out of the night that covers me,
Black as Pit from pole to pole.
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade.
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
And when our odyssey draws to cease,
Our spirits soaring, hearts at peace,
Our countenance, serene and bold,
Our story written, our purpose told.
And just like Paul we’ll proclaim
Veni, Vidi, Vici.
Adapted based on Invictus by
William Ernest Henley.
Moments Galleria
