Mirian Gom 
IMO, Nigeria – The Imo Specialist Hospital has performed its first robotic-assisted surgery, marking a significant milestone in the state’s drive to expand access to advanced healthcare and reduce medical tourism.
The procedure takes place on Friday at the newly established Imo Robotics and Oncology Centre in Umuguma, with the state government describing it as a major step towards positioning Imo as a hub for specialised medical care in Nigeria.
A Consultant Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgeon and Lead Urological Surgeon at Glan Clwyd Hospital in the United Kingdom, Prof. Kingsley Ekwueme, in a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Hope Uzodimma on Electronic and Creative Media, Ambrose Nwaogwugwu says the successful procedure ushers in “a new chapter” in healthcare delivery across the state.
“A new chapter is opening in healthcare delivery in Imo State today as the Imo Specialist Hospital, Umuguma, performs its first robotics-assisted surgery, bringing advanced medical technology closer to ordinary Imolites.”
He says the milestone coincides with efforts to make quality healthcare more affordable through the Imo State Health Insurance Programme, under which eligible residents can access healthcare services for ₦15,000 per person annually.
According to the statement, the hospital has undergone extensive upgrades, including the establishment of a dedicated Robotics Centre equipped with modern medical technology under a public-private partnership.
The state government says Governor Hope Uzodimma initiated the project to reduce the number of Nigerians travelling abroad for specialised treatment by providing world-class medical services within the country.
Describing the Imo Robotics and Oncology Centre as one of the most ambitious healthcare projects undertaken by any Nigerian state government, the statement says the facility combines robotic surgical technology with oncology services to improve the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, urological conditions and other complex diseases.
It adds that the centre will also support specialist training, foster international collaborations and help retain healthcare spending within Nigeria.
Explaining the benefits of robotic-assisted surgery, Nwaogwugwu says the technology provides greater precision, enhanced visualisation, improved dexterity and better control during complex procedures.
He adds that patients may benefit from smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, shorter recovery periods and improved surgical outcomes, depending on the procedure performed.
The statement says Friday’s operation transforms the Imo Robotics and Oncology Centre from a completed infrastructure project into a fully operational specialist medical facility capable of delivering advanced healthcare services.
The development comes amid growing concerns over medical tourism by Nigerians seeking specialised treatment abroad. The Imo State Government says the centre offers a viable alternative within the country while strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare capacity.
Nwaogwugwu also says doctors and nurses expressed optimism ahead of the historic procedure when Governor Uzodimma inspected the facility on Wednesday.
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Hope Ajayi 
