Bayelsa Medical University (BMU), Yenagoa, has officially announced its 7th Matriculation Ceremony, marking a major milestone in the 2025/2026 academic session.

The announcement was made by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dimie Ogoina, on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, and the entire university community. The ceremony will formally admit newly enrolled undergraduate students into the academic and professional community of one of Nigeria’s leading medical institutions.

Matriculation at BMU is not just ceremonial, it is a compulsory academic process that officially confirms a student’s status as a bona fide member of the university.

Date, Time, and Venue of the Ceremony

The university has released the full details of the matriculation ceremony as follows:

• Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
  
• Time: 9:30 a.m. (prompt)
  
• Venue: BMU Rooftop Auditorium, Imgbi Road, Amarata, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State
  

Students and guests are expected to be seated on time to allow for the formal academic procession of the Vice-Chancellor and members of the University Senate. Due to the expected presence of key stakeholders and invited guests, punctuality will be strictly observed.

Importance of the Matriculation Oath

The matriculation ceremony will feature the administration of the Matriculation Oath, a defining moment in the academic journey of every BMU student.

By taking the oath, students formally commit themselves to:

• Upholding academic discipline and integrity
  
• Respecting the rules and regulations of the university
  
• Embracing ethical standards expected in the medical profession
  

Successful matriculation grants students full academic recognition, inclusion in official university records, and eligibility for statutory documentation through JAMB and the National Universities Commission (NUC).

Requirements for Fresh Students

To be eligible to participate in the matriculation ceremony, newly admitted students must ensure the following:

Academic Clearance and Registration

Only students who have completed their admission clearance and online course registration for the first semester will be allowed to matriculate. This confirms compliance with admission requirements set by relevant regulatory bodies.

Collection of Academic Gowns

Matriculating students are to collect their academic gowns from their respective faculty offices.

• Students may be required to present proof of school fees payment
  
• Gowns must be returned within the stipulated period to avoid penalties
  

The academic gown symbolizes a student’s formal entry into the scholarly community of the university.

Vice-Chancellor’s Message to New Students

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dimie Ogoina, is expected to address the matriculating students during the ceremony. His message traditionally emphasizes professionalism, discipline, and commitment to excellence values central to medical training.

Under his leadership, BMU continues to expand its academic infrastructure, clinical partnerships, and research capacity, positioning the institution as a growing center for medical education in Nigeria.

Information for Parents and Guests

The university has made arrangements to ensure a smooth and orderly ceremony:

• Security: Adequate security personnel will be deployed within and around the campus
  
• Photography: Guests are advised to observe decorum during official proceedings
  
• Celebrations: Families may hold modest receptions in designated areas after the ceremony
  

BMU encourages parents and guardians to support students as they begin this demanding but rewarding academic journey.