The recognition was presented during the World Physiotherapy Africa Region Conference held in Kigali, Rwanda, on June 5 and 6, 2026, where leading physiotherapy professionals from across Africa gathered to discuss advancements in healthcare, rehabilitation, research, and professional practice.
The award celebrates Professor Useh's remarkable contributions to physiotherapy education, scientific research, public health, and professional development, achievements that have had a far-reaching impact across Africa and beyond.
According to the World Physiotherapy Africa Region, Useh's nomination was submitted by the South African Society of Physiotherapy before undergoing a rigorous assessment process by the Africa Region Awards Committee. Following a comprehensive review of his professional accomplishments and contributions to the field, the committee recommended him for the award, a decision that was subsequently endorsed by the Africa Region Executive Committee.
In a letter announcing the honour, Regional Administrator and World Physiotherapy Membership Manager, Birgit Mueller-Winkler, conveyed the organisation's appreciation for Useh's achievements.
"On behalf of the Africa Region Executive Committee, I would like to express our heartfelt congratulations on your achievements," the letter stated.
The World Physiotherapy Africa Region Award is regarded as one of the most prestigious distinctions within the profession, reserved for physiotherapists whose work has significantly advanced healthcare delivery, rehabilitation services, education, and professional practice throughout the continent.
The recognition has been met with widespread commendation from colleagues, academics, healthcare practitioners, and professional bodies, many of whom describe Professor Useh as one of Africa's foremost physiotherapy scholars.
The South African Society of Physiotherapy, in a congratulatory message shared on its official Facebook page, noted that the award acknowledged his "outstanding contribution to physiotherapy, higher education, research and public health across Africa."
The society further highlighted the breadth of his professional journey, describing a career that has spanned more than four decades and touched virtually every aspect of the physiotherapy profession.
"Over a career spanning more than four decades, Useh has served as a clinician, educator, researcher, mentor and leader, helping shape the profession through his commitment to excellence, knowledge generation and the development of future healthcare professionals."
"Today, we celebrate not only this well-deserved recognition, but also the lasting impact of a career dedicated to advancing physiotherapy and improving lives across our continent."
Beyond recognising an individual's achievements, the award underscores the growing role of African physiotherapists in transforming healthcare systems through rehabilitation services, evidence-based research, education, and policy advocacy. As non-communicable diseases, injuries, and age-related health challenges continue to increase across the continent, physiotherapy has become an increasingly important component of modern healthcare delivery.
Professor Useh's recognition also reflects the rising global profile of African healthcare professionals whose research and expertise are contributing to improved patient outcomes and stronger health systems.
The World Physiotherapy Africa Region currently comprises 27 member countries and is committed to strengthening physiotherapy practice across Africa through collaboration, education, research, and professional development. Its key priorities include supporting physiotherapy educators, promoting regional partnerships, encouraging collaborative and grant-funded research projects, improving communication among member organisations, and expanding membership throughout the continent.
Founded in 1951, World Physiotherapy serves as the global voice of the profession. The organisation represents more than 600,000 physiotherapists through 129 member organisations spread across five world regions.
For Nigeria and the wider African healthcare community, Professor Useh's latest achievement stands as a powerful testament to the growing influence of African experts in rehabilitation science, public health, and healthcare innovation. It also reinforces the critical role physiotherapy continues to play in improving quality of life, restoring function, and advancing healthcare outcomes for millions of people worldwide.