The Physiotherapy Department of Randle General Hospital, Surulere, Lagos, has marked its 10th anniversary with a renewed commitment to patient-centred rehabilitation, professional development, research and training.
The anniversary,was celebrated under the theme, “A Decade of Recovery Through Movement.”
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The occasion brought together past and present leaders of the hospital, physiotherapists, members of the management team and other stakeholders to reflect on the department’s achievements, challenges and prospects.
The department was established on February 1, 2016, following surveys and advocacy conducted between 2013 and 2015 that identified the need for physiotherapy services in a general hospital serving the Surulere axis.
From its beginnings as a one-person department, it has grown into a team comprising six permanent physiotherapists, three physiotherapy interns and a National Youth Service Corps member.
The pioneer Head of the Department, Mr. Babatunde Adeolu, recalled the challenges faced during its formative years, noting that perseverance, teamwork and institutional support were instrumental to its growth and stability.
Adeolu said patient patronage had increased significantly, from 38 patients in the department’s first month to an average of 290 patients monthly in 2026.
He attributed the growth to increased public awareness and confidence in the quality of physiotherapy services provided by the hospital.
Beyond patient care, the department has developed into a centre for research and professional training.
Since 2018, it has trained and supported 31 physiotherapy students, 19 interns, eight NYSC members and 17 postgraduate research students.
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The department’s growing capacity was further recognised in 2025 when it received partial accreditation from the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists Board of Nigeria (MRTBN) to train physiotherapy interns. The first set of interns was posted to the department in June 2025.
The Medical Director/Chief Executive Officer of Randle General Hospital, Dr. Lateefat Omolara Agbaje, commended the department for its contributions to patient rehabilitation and professional training. She was represented at the formal proceedings by Dr. Matthew Olufade after she left to attend a meeting of Medical Directors.
Two former Medical Directors/CEOs of the hospital, Dr. Madewa Adebajo and Dr. Olumide Sojinrin, also attended the event and delivered goodwill messages, sharing their experiences and encouraging the department to sustain its culture of excellence.
The Director of Physiotherapy Services, Lagos State Health Service Commission, Dr. Olasunkanmi Shogbanmu, delivered an address at the event, while two retired Directors of Physiotherapy Services, Mrs. Olufunke Akinla and Mrs. Olajumoke Smith, shared their experiences and congratulated the department on the milestone.
Also in attendance was Dr. Adedoyin Lasisi, who represented the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Dr. Tajudeen Omobolaji Gaji.
Representing the nursing leadership, the Apex Nurse, Mrs. Elizabeth Boateng, commended the department for its contribution to patient care and its remarkable growth over the past decade.
A major highlight of the celebration was the presentation of 10th anniversary awards to individuals recognised for their contributions to the development of the department and the hospital.
Award recipients included Dr. Lateefat Omolara Agbaje, former Medical Directors Dr. Madewa Adebajo and Dr. Olumide Sojinrin, as well as retired Directors of Physiotherapy Services Mrs. Olufunke Akinla and Mrs. Olajumoke Smith.
The celebration highlighted the department’s commitment to continuous professional development, quality rehabilitation services, research and training.
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As it begins its second decade, the Physiotherapy Department said it would continue to strengthen the capacity of its personnel, promote patient-centred care and create an enabling professional environment where staff can develop their skills and reach their full potential.
The 10th anniversary marked a decade of growth and service, demonstrating the role of sustained investment, professional commitment and teamwork in improving healthcare delivery and the quality of life of patients in Lagos.