The University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, has issued a stern warning to the general public regarding a viral advertisement claiming to offer internship positions at the hospital. The notice, which has been circulating on various social media platforms, has prompted concerns over potential scams targeting unsuspecting applicants seeking professional opportunities in Nigeria’s premier teaching hospital.
In an official statement signed by Mrs. Funmi Adetuyibi, the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, the management clarified that UCH is not currently inviting applications for internship positions. The statement specifically mentioned that any adverts or notices circulating under the guise of IJME E-Parcel Services or other unauthorized agencies are not endorsed by the hospital and should be treated with suspicion.
The hospital urged prospective applicants and the general public to disregard such unauthorized notices. According to the statement, the circulation of fake adverts could mislead young graduates and expose them to financial exploitation, as fraudulent operators often demand payment or personal information under the pretense of securing internship placements.
UCH further emphasised that all official internship announcements will only be made through recognized channels, including the hospital’s official website and other verified communication platforms. This step is aimed at protecting applicants from falling victim to online scams and ensuring that only legitimate recruitment processes are followed.
Mrs. Adetuyibi stated, “We wish to inform the general public that the University College Hospital, Ibadan, is currently not inviting applications for internship positions. Please disregard such notices and be cautious of potential scams. Any official call for applications will be communicated through our verified channels.”
The warning comes amid a growing number of online scams targeting graduates and job seekers in Nigeria. Social media platforms have increasingly been used to distribute misleading information about employment opportunities, often resulting in financial loss and emotional distress for unsuspecting individuals.
UCH management’s intervention is part of a broader effort to maintain transparency and integrity in its recruitment processes. The hospital, being one of Nigeria’s foremost teaching hospitals, relies on official communication channels to ensure that prospective interns and staff receive accurate information regarding application procedures and eligibility requirements.
The Chief Medical Director, through Mrs. Adetuyibi, reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to protecting the public from fraudulent activities. The statement also served as a reminder for applicants to verify the authenticity of any employment or internship offer before sharing personal information or making payments to third parties.
The hospital’s advisory underscores the importance of vigilance among young graduates seeking internships, particularly in the healthcare sector, where competition is high and scammers often exploit ambition and urgency. UCH encourages applicants to rely on official notices and confirmed sources for accurate information.
In conclusion, UCH Ibadan’s management reiterated that any claims of internship opportunities not issued by the hospital are invalid and potentially harmful. The hospital continues to advise caution, stressing that official announcements will be made publicly through verified channels to ensure transparency, fairness, and the safety of applicants.
