Efe Useh, a physiotherapist and scholar with Nigerian roots, has won the World Physiotherapy Africa Region Award. It's one of the continent's most prestigious honours in his field.
Useh collected the award at the World Physiotherapy Africa Region Congress in Kigali, Rwanda. He's currently based in South Africa.
Nigeria's Society of Physiotherapy hailed the recognition as well-deserved. According to Oyinlola Felix Odusanya, the NSP president, Useh embodies excellence in academics, research and professional practice.
"Professor Useh remains a source of pride to Nigeria and the physiotherapy profession," Odusanya stated. He noted that Useh distinguished himself through academic excellence, professional leadership and service across the continent.
Before moving to South Africa, Useh served as the NSP's Public Relations Officer. He played a crucial role in strengthening physiotherapy in Nigeria during that period.
From his current base, he continues contributing significantly to physiotherapy education and research across Africa. His work has shaped the profession's development on the continent.
Useh's award marks the second time a Nigerian has won this prestigious continental honour. Thompson Abayomi Oshin, the first trained African physiotherapist and Nigeria's founding physiotherapist, was the inaugural recipient.
Two distinguished Nigerians winning this award reflects the nation's enduring impact on African physiotherapy. It underscores Nigeria's leadership in developing the profession across the region.
NSP officials expressed optimism about the award's ripple effect. Younger physiotherapists in Nigeria and across Africa will likely draw inspiration from Useh's achievements, they believe.
His success reinforces Nigeria's standing as a major force in physiotherapy advancement. Education, practice and research in the field have all benefited from Nigerian contributions.
