The Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) has joined the global community to commemorate World Physiotherapy Day 2026, with emphasis on the vital role of physiotherapy and physical activity in the prevention, management and rehabilitation of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
The celebration, organised by the JUTH Physiotherapy Department in conjunction with the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy (NSP), Plateau State Chapter, was held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Seminar Hall A, JUTH. The programme featured the National Anthem, opening prayers, introduction of dignitaries, welcome address, goodwill messages, a World Physiotherapy Day video clip, keynote address, interactive clinical discussions, audience observations, award presentation and other activities.
In his welcome address, the Plateau State Chairman of the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy (PLNSP), Dr. Femi Adamolekun, welcomed guests and participants to the celebration. He highlighted the importance of the annual observance in creating awareness about the role of physiotherapy in healthcare and recognising the contributions of physiotherapists to patient recovery and rehabilitation.
The Chief Medical Director of JUTH, Dr. Pokop W. Bupwatda, represented by the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Dr. Njem Josiah Miner, commended the Physiotherapy Department for its contributions to patient care, rehabilitation and multidisciplinary healthcare services. He stressed the importance of physiotherapy in achieving improved health outcomes and encouraged practitioners to continue upholding professional standards while promoting patient-centred care.
Delivering the World Physiotherapy Day keynote address, the Director/Head of Physiotherapy Department, Dr. Babatunde Gbolahan Ogundumade, highlighted the importance of physical activity and physiotherapy in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. He called for greater public awareness and encouraged individuals to adopt active and healthier lifestyles.
The celebration also featured a short interactive clinical discussion led by Prof. Solomon Sulei Danbauchi, a Consultant Cardiologist and Professor of Medicine, who provided professional insights into cardiovascular disease and stroke prevention, management and rehabilitation. The interactive session also afforded participants the opportunity to engage on practical approaches to improving cardiovascular health and patient outcomes.
A major highlight of the celebration was the presentation of awards of recognition to individuals who have contributed significantly to the development of physiotherapy services in JUTH. The awardees included the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Pokop W. Bupwatda; Director/Head of Physiotherapy, Dr. Babatunde Gbolahan Ogundumade; and the pioneer Head of the Department, Associate Professor Henry Adeiza Onuwe.
The event was attended by members of the JUTH Management Team, Heads of Departments, physiotherapists, clinicians and other healthcare professionals, as well as invited dignitaries, who joined in celebrating the profession and its contribution to quality healthcare delivery. The celebration concluded with the CMD’s opening and closing remarks, vote of thanks, closing prayers, the National Anthem, photographs and departure of guests.
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