Background: Early mobilization is recommended to enhance recovery after abdominal surgery, but data from Nigerian healthcare settings remain limited.

Aim: This study assessed the impact of early mobilization on postoperative recovery among elective abdominal surgery patients.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 30 elective abdominal surgery patients (response rate: 75.0%) at a tertiary hospital in northwestern Nigeria. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing mobilization practices, functional recovery, complications, hospital stay, and patient satisfaction. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis.

Results: The majority of patients (83.3%) were encouraged to sit up within 24 hours post-surgery, and 76.7% received assistance to stand within 24–48 hours. However, only 60.0% received pain relief before mobilization. Early mobilization was associated with improved functional recovery in 93.3% of patients and reduced hospital stay in 83.3%. Pulmonary complications occurred in 6.7%, ileus in 13.3%, and wound complications in 10.0%. Patient satisfaction with nurse-led mobilization was 93.3%. Pain management gaps were identified as barriers to more frequent mobilization.

Conclusion: Early mobilization is associated with positive postoperative recovery outcomes and high patient satisfaction. However, gaps in pre-mobilization pain management require attention. Structured mobilization protocols should be implemented to optimize recovery