The Nigerian Prosthetic, Orthotic, and Orthopaedic Technology Society (NPOOTS) 4th Annual Conference delivered an inspiring, insightful, and strategically important gathering—one that will be remembered as a milestone for the country’s growing rehabilitation ecosystem. Hosted in Port Harcourt, this year’s conference brought together an impressive network of clinicians, policymakers, academic leaders, industry innovators, and international partners, all united by a shared purpose: advancing the quality, accessibility, and impact of prosthetic, orthotic, and orthopaedic services across Nigeria.
From the outset, the conference created an environment of active learning and meaningful exchange. Sessions were rich with practical insights, evidence-based discussions, and forward-looking strategies aimed at strengthening clinical practice, education, and technology integration within the P&O field. The calibre of presentations reflected the diverse expertise across Nigeria’s rehabilitation landscape, while also highlighting areas where continued investment and collaboration are necessary.
One of the standout features of the 4th Annual Conference was the strong presence of key stakeholders and decision-makers. Representatives of the Honorable Commissioner of Health, Rivers State; leadership of the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists Board of Nigeria (MRTB); the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO); the National Committee on Education and Training (NCET); the University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH); and CEOs from leading P&O companies such as Orthofit Orthopaedics, OrthoEx Nigeria, and IfeanHealth all took active roles.
Their engagement signalled growing national recognition of P&O as an essential pillar of healthcare—particularly within trauma care, non-communicable diseases, diabetic foot management, and post-operative rehabilitation.
This year’s conference placed notable emphasis on innovation in prosthetic and orthotic technology, including digital workflows, modern materials, local manufacturing strategies, and scalable service delivery models. Discussions explored ways to expand training programs, update curricula, and foster research that aligns with global standards while addressing Nigeria’s unique context.
The involvement of UNIDO and international partners added further weight to conversations around industry development, import substitution, and economic opportunities in the assistive technology sector.
Beyond the technical sessions, the conference fostered an atmosphere of inspiration and camaraderie. Early-career professionals, students, and emerging clinicians found mentorship and encouragement. Senior practitioners shared decades of wisdom. Leaders emphasised unity, professionalism, and continuous improvement as the foundation for future progress.
For many attendees, the most powerful moments came from personal stories—of resilience, of patient transformation, and of the daily realities faced by clinicians working across Nigeria’s hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and private workshops.
The NPOOTS 4th Annual Conference made one thing clear: Nigeria’s prosthetic and orthotic profession is entering a new era. With strengthened advocacy, stronger institutional backing, and an increasingly skilled workforce, the foundations are being laid for sustainable growth and international relevance.
The momentum generated this year sets the stage for expanded training pathways, improved regulation, enhanced quality standards, and better regional coordination. Most importantly, it reaffirms the commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian who needs prosthetic, orthotic, or orthopaedic technology services receives care that is dignified, effective, and accessible.
The NPOOTS 2025 Annual Conference was a resounding success—professionally enriching, strategically important, and deeply motivating. It showcased the resilience and ambition of Nigeria’s P&O community, while reinforcing that collaboration is the key to unlocking its full potential.
As the profession continues to evolve, NPOOTS stands as a critical platform guiding its growth. This year’s conference not only celebrated achievements but also charted a clear path forward. It was, without question, one of the most impactful rehabilitation gatherings in the region this year.