UCH Ibadan Pioneers Advanced Care as Physiotherapy Department Launches Acupuncture Training

The Physiotherapy Department of the University College Hospital (UCH) organised a capacity-building training programme on Acupuncture for staff and interns of the department. The programme took place at the Physiotherapy Department Lobby on 12th January, 2026.

Speaking during the programme, Dr. Olusegun Adejare explained that acupuncture has existed for a long time and has traditionally been used as an alternative form of medicine. He noted, however, that in recent times, acupuncture has gained recognition as a distinct and emerging branch within physiotherapy practice.

The Head of Department, Mr. Raymond Olasehinde, expressed his appreciation to the hospital management for their continued and unwavering support to the department, which he described as instrumental to its growth and development.

In his address, the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo, expressed his delight at the initiative. He stated:

 “It is with profound excitement that I join you at the opening of this Acupuncture Training for Physiotherapists, organised by the Department of Physiotherapy of the University College Hospital, Ibadan.

Let me begin by commending the leadership and staff of the Physiotherapy Department for this forward-thinking initiative. The decision to organise a specialised training such as this clearly reflects your commitment to continuous professional development, innovation, and the delivery of patient-centred care in line with global best practices and the shared vision for excellence of this administration.

Acupuncture, as a complementary and evidence-based therapeutic modality, has continued to gain recognition worldwide for its role in pain management, rehabilitation, and holistic patient care. Integrating such skills into physiotherapy practice will not only broaden clinical competence but also enhances treatment outcomes and expand the range of services available to our patients.

As a foremost tertiary health institution in Nigeria and West Africa, UCH Ibadan remains committed to promoting multidisciplinary learning, research, and skills acquisition. We strongly believe that capacity-building programmes like this are essential to sustaining excellence, improving service delivery, and positioning our healthcare professionals to compete favourably on the global stage."

The Chief Medical Director thereafter declared the training open, encouraging participants to listen attentively to every detail. Prof. Otegbayo concluded by assuring participants that he would ensure the provision of equipment necessary to make the training practical as soon as the funding is available.