Kano Health Commissioner Announces Speech Physiotherapy Plans

The Health Commissioner of Kano, Labaran, stated that the state currently lacks a single speech physiotherapist, necessitating the need to either bring in specialists from Ibadan or travel there for services. To address this shortage, the state government plans to sponsor physiotherapists for specialized training, ensuring local access to these essential services.

This announcement was made during the 66th Annual Scientific Conference and 67th Annual General Meeting of the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy held in Kano. Labaran noted the government's efforts to expand physiotherapy units in four hospitals and establish a centre of excellence at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital.

Professor Rufai Ahmed, representing the Minister of State for Health, emphasized the importance of training physiotherapists in specialized fields. The President of the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy, Dr Felix Oyinlola Odusanya, expressed hope for a national rehabilitation policy and the introduction of a Doctor of Physiotherapy degree program.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by Umar Faruk, highlighted the role of physiotherapy in public health.