UCH Celebrates Pa Oshin's Legacy in Physiotherapy

The University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan celebrated the 100th birthday of Pa (Dr.) Thompson Abayomi Oshin, a pioneer in Nigerian physiotherapy. Chief Medical Director Prof. Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo, represented by Prof. Bukola Adesina, called for stakeholders to build on Oshin's legacy by embracing innovation, research, and technology to improve rehabilitation services.

Oshin, who joined UCH in 1955 as Nigeria’s first chartered physiotherapist, was instrumental in establishing key rehabilitation units, co-founding the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy, and initiating the physiotherapy degree program at the University of Ibadan. Otegbayo highlighted the importance of physiotherapy in modern healthcare and urged practitioners to adopt advancements like artificial intelligence and tele-rehabilitation.

Guest lecturer Dr. Kamaldeen Sanni advocated for the recognition of physiotherapists as first-contact healthcare professionals and opposed the introduction of physiotherapy technicians. Emeritus Professor Oluwole Akande praised Oshin as a national treasure whose contributions have significantly shaped the field.