Imo State is set to record its first robotic-assisted surgery today as the state government prepares to conduct the procedure at the Imo Robotics and Oncology Centre (IROC) in Owerri.
The operation is scheduled for 10am at the Imo Specialist Hospital, Umuguma, in the Owerri West Local Government Area, marking what the state government described as a major milestone in its efforts to expand access to advanced medical care.
The development is part of Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration’s efforts to reduce medical tourism by providing specialised healthcare services and modern medical facilities within the state.
The procedure will be led by Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, a consultant robotic and laparoscopic surgeon and lead urological surgeon at Glan Clwyd Hospital in the United Kingdom.
Ekwueme, a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS) and founder of The Prostate Clinic, is internationally recognised for his work in robotic and minimally invasive surgery.
His participation, according to the state government, reflects the clinical standards being established at the IROC.
Uzodimma is expected to witness the procedure personally, highlighting his administration’s focus on using advanced technology and infrastructure to transform healthcare delivery in the state.
IROC targets advanced healthcare
The Imo Robotics and Oncology Centre was established as part of the governor’s efforts to develop specialised medical infrastructure and position Imo as a destination for advanced healthcare in Nigeria and Africa.
The introduction of robotic-assisted surgery is being presented by the state government as a significant step towards reducing the need for residents to travel abroad for specialised procedures.
Officials said the initiative would also strengthen the state’s capacity to provide minimally invasive surgical procedures while creating opportunities for the development of specialist medical expertise.
The planned operation represents a major milestone for Imo’s healthcare sector and comes about five decades after the creation of the state.
