The Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy, Kaduna State Chapter, in collaboration with the Department of Physiotherapy at Kaduna State University (KASU), organized a public lecture to commemorate World Physiotherapy Day 2025. The theme for this year was “The Role of Physiotherapy in Healthy Ageing.” The event took place on Monday, 8th September 2025 at the 500-Seater Pharmacy Auditorium, KASU.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Dr. Amos Gwamna Magaji, represented by Dr. Joseph Thot, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to speak. He highlighted the crucial role of therapists as Nigeria’s elderly population grows. He stressed that while people are living longer, it is vital to ensure they lead healthier, more active lives. Physiotherapy, he noted, aids in mobility, managing chronic conditions, and supporting mental well-being. He reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to enhancing elder care services and praised the Physiotherapy Association of Nigeria for their dedication to improving the quality of life for older citizens.
During his welcome address, the Chief Host, KASU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Abdullahi Ibrahim Musa, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Strategy, Innovation and Service Delivery, Prof. Helen A. Andow, welcomed all participants. He encouraged attendees to consult physiotherapists regularly, especially as they age.
In her speech, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Her Excellency, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, represented by the Chief Medical Director of Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, KASU, Prof. Musa Tabari, acknowledged key attendees and conveyed her goodwill message. She emphasized the importance of healthy ageing, noting that while longevity is increasing, it is essential to ensure quality of life. She underscored the role of physiotherapy in preventing health issues and managing chronic diseases, enabling older citizens to remain active and empowered. She added that the government is committed to enhancing rehabilitation services through the renovation of healthcare facilities and the establishment of dedicated rehabilitation units. She called for collaboration across all sectors to create supportive environments for ageing populations and concluded with a World Health Organization quotation, stressing the need to enhance both lifespan and quality of life through movement and care.
The Guest Speaker, Prof. Isa Usman Lawal from the Department of Physiotherapy, Bayero University Kano, emphasized the significance of healthy ageing, frailty, and fall prevention in Africa, particularly in Nigeria. He discussed the projected growth of the elderly population in sub-Saharan Africa and the need for effective ageing strategies addressing biological, psychological, and social factors. He highlighted the lack of consensus on definitions of ageing and the impact of socio-economic factors and cultural beliefs on health. He called for collaboration among healthcare providers, communities, and governments to create supportive policies for ageing populations.
At the end of the programme, awards were presented to several members of the society for their outstanding performance and contributions to the field of physiotherapy.
Congratulations
Good one kasu