Nigerian brothers John and Ubokobong Amanam are transforming prosthetics with lifelike limbs tailored to African bodies, blending cultural relevance with advanced technology while striving to make them more affordable and accessible.
By: Joseph James Udoh | Columnist | WBN NEWS Africa / Nashville | April 3, 2026
In Uyo, Immortal Cosmetic Art, a Nigerian prosthetics company founded by brothers John and Ubokobong Amanam is challenging global norms in assistive technology by designing prosthetic limbs that reflect the bodies and identities of Africans. Frustrated by prosthetics that weren’t suited to his skin tone or body type after losing fingers in a fireworks accident, Ubokobong teamed up with his brother John, a former special effects artist, to build prosthetics
“made for Africans by Africans.”
Their work confronts the longstanding dominance of Western-designed prosthetic markets and highlights the importance of culturally appropriate innovation.
Their signature products range from hyper‑realistic silicone limbs that match skin tones and textures to advanced bionic arms controlled by electromyography signals technology that detects muscle impulses to enable natural movement. While high‑functioning bionic limbs remain expensive, the brothers are actively seeking partnerships with governments and NGOs to scale production and make these technologies more widely available.
Clients like Emediong Bassey, who received a custom leg prosthetic, say the lifelike fit transformed not only mobility but confidence:
“It feels like my real leg… Most people don’t even realise it’s not my real leg.”
The Amanams’ mission underscores a broader shift in innovation: solutions born from lived experience can better meet local needs while influencing global assistive‑tech practices. Their journey suggests a future where adaptive technology is not a luxury, but a locally driven tool of empowerment, restoring independence and dignity to thousands across Africa and beyond.
TAG: #Nigeria #Prosthetics #Innovation #Health Tech #Accessibility
Joseph James Udoh is an Actor, and a Columnist with WBN News (Africa, Nashville Editions).
He covers local stories, business insights, and inspiring human-interest topics. With a background in computer science, theology, and human resource leadership, he is passionate about digital empowerment and helping people thrive.
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