Imo Begins Robotic-Assisted Surgery as Uzodimma Unveils Advanced Specialist Healthcare
Mirian Gom 
OWERRI, Nigeria – Imo State is set to commence robotic-assisted surgery on Friday, marking a major milestone in the state’s healthcare advancement and specialist medical services.
Governor Hope Uzodimma announced the development while briefing journalists at the Government House in Owerri, describing the initiative as part of his administration’s investment in modern healthcare infrastructure and advanced medical technology.
The inaugural procedure will take place at the Imo Robotics and Oncology Centre (IROC), located within the reconstructed Imo Specialist Hospital in Umuguma, Owerri West Local Government Area.
Uzodimma said the hospital has been transformed into a modern specialist facility equipped with accident and emergency services, intensive care and neonatal intensive care units, specialist operating theatres, medical oxygen systems, diagnostic services, maternity and paediatric units, physiotherapy, mental health services and specialist wards.
He disclosed that the robotic surgical system has been fully installed and prepared for clinical use.
The first operation will be led by United Kingdom-based Consultant Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgeon, Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, alongside other medical specialists.
According to the governor, the collaboration is expected to facilitate technology transfer and provide hands-on training for local healthcare professionals.
Uzodimma explained that robotic-assisted surgery offers greater precision during complex procedures, supports minimally invasive surgery, reduces blood loss and may shorten patients’ recovery periods.
He added that the investment would reduce the need for residents to travel outside Imo State or abroad for advanced specialist treatment.
The governor described the initiative as another step toward positioning Imo as a centre for high-quality specialist healthcare in Nigeria.
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