BNU Physiotherapist leads first-of-its-kind patient safety training in Nigeria
Frontline care in Nigeria is set to improve thanks to a BNU physiotherapist-led initiative targeting patient and staff safety.
Timothy Ishaku, Senior Lecturer in Physiotherapy, travelled to the Federal Teaching Hospital in Gombe, Nigeria (where he was born) to spearhead the programme, which he says is “the first training of its kind, not just in the hospital, but in the country.”
The programme addresses a critical but often overlooked aspect of care by training healthcare workers to move patients safely in ways that minimise injury risk to both patients and staff. Supported by newly donated equipment, participants, including physiotherapists and nurses, were taught to apply biomechanical principles, carry out risk assessments and implement practical solutions in resource-limited environments.
“It’s been really well received,” said Timothy. “Nurses and physiotherapists deal with patient handling every day, so having the skills to do it more safely and efficiently is hugely valuable.”
The equipment was funded through a £3,491 grant from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) Charitable Trust and includes items rarely accessible in Nigerian hospitals, such as a hoist, a patient turner, a slide board, and bed rails. While standard in the NHS, these tools are often difficult and costly to source locally.
“For many participants, it’s their first time seeing or using this kind of equipment,” Timothy explained. “Being able to demonstrate how they work and reduce risk has been very impactful.”
To extend impact beyond the workshop, representatives from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones were invited through the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists (Registration) Board of Nigeria (MRTB). They have since returned to their regions and are expected to deliver the training locally, helping build a growing network of skilled practitioners.
“The national regulator recognised the importance of this training,” Timothy said. “They supported us by selecting representatives who can take this knowledge back to their local communities and continue the work.”
The choice of Gombe was personal for Timothy, who grew up in the region and witnessed challenges faced by healthcare professionals. “I know the gap that exists there,” he said. “Working at BNU, with its focus on knowledge exchange, gave me the opportunity to bring my skills back home.”
He also noted that the project represents a significant milestone in his professional development. Funded by the CSP’s charitable trust, it marks the first time he has secured and managed international funding, allowing him to translate academic expertise into real-world impact.
“It’s the next stage of my career… being able to apply for funding and use it to support areas I’m passionate about is rewarding.”
Feedback from participants and hospital leadership has been overwhelmingly positive, with the hospital awarding Timothy with an Award of Appreciation.
Professor Aminu Umar Usman, Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee (Clinical) at the Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, praised the initiative: “With your assistance, handling our patients, particularly the debilitated ones, becomes much easier,” he said. “You have made our work much easier. We are anxiously waiting for more collaborations with you.”
Keltuma Abdullahi Lawan, Head of the Physiotherapy Department at the Federal Medical Center in Kumo, said the programme had significantly improved both safety and confidence. “My chances of developing work-related musculoskeletal injuries, especially those associated with lifting, have been reduced. I am more confident handling my patients, and they feel safer as well ,” Lawan said.
Beyond its immediate impact, the initiative is expected to support future UK/Nigerian healthcare collaboration, with Timothy already invited to return. It highlights how targeted training and international partnership can address workforce and resource pressures, while improving safety and care standards across Nigeria.
- Find out more about Physiotherapy courses available at BNU here
- All eligible Physiotherapy students can apply for the NHS Learning Support Fund of at least £5,000 a year.
