…Urges Residents to Embrace Physical Activity to Prevent Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke.
The Oyo State Government has joined the rest of the world to mark the 2026 World Physiotherapy Day, with a call on residents to embrace regular physical activity as part of efforts to preventing managing and rehabilitating cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
The event, held at the Pavilion, Staff Clinic, Secretariat, Ibadan, had as its theme: “The Role of Physiotherapy and Physical Activity in the Prevention, Management and Rehabilitation of Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke.”
The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Akintunde Ayinde, said the theme was particularly timely as it marked the beginning of a four-year global focus by the World Physiotherapy on non-communicable diseases.
She noted that cardiovascular diseases and stroke remain major causes of illness, disability and death globally, stressing that many of these conditions could be prevented or better managed through healthy lifestyles, early detection and regular physical activity.
Dr. Ajetunmobi highlighted the critical role of physiotherapists in identifying individuals at risk, designing safe and personalised exercise routines, encouraging regular physical activity and supporting early intervention when warning signs are detected.
She added that physiotherapists also play an important role in stroke recovery by helping survivors retain mobility, improve balance and physical function, perform daily activities, regain independence and ultimately improve their quality of life.
The Commissioner urged individuals to recognise physical activity not only as a form of recreation but also as a powerful tool for preventing diseases and promoting healthy living.
She therefore called for greater support and recognition of physiotherapists as essential members of the healthcare team in the prevention, management and rehabilitation of cardiovascular diseases.
She encouraged residents to “sit less, move more” and make physical activity a regular part of their daily lives.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Anifat Ibraheem, said cardiovascular diseases and stroke were no longer diseases associated only with the elderly.
She stated that sedentary lifestyles, poor diet, stress and hypertension had made cardiovascular diseases and stroke major public health concerns in Nigeria, including Oyo State.
Dr. Ibraheem noted that prevention, management and rehabilitation could help restore mobility, speech, balance and independence among patients affected by stroke and other cardiovascular conditions.
She commended the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy, Oyo State Chapter, for choosing the theme and organising activities to sensitise the public, noting that the programme supports Oyo State Government’s commitment to preventive healthcare and universal health coverage under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde.
The Permanent Secretary also reiterated the commitment of the state Hospitals Management Board to advocating for improved infrastructure, modern equipment, professional engagement and continuous development of physiotherapists across health facilities in the state.
Highlights of the event included a morning jogging and aerobic exercise session led by physiotherapists in the state.
