Imo Set to Make History With First Robotic Surgery Today
Imo State is set to record a major milestone in healthcare today with the commencement of its first robotic-assisted surgery.
The procedure is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. at the Imo Robotics and Oncology Centre (IROC), located at the Imo Specialist Hospital in Umuguma, Owerri West Local Government Area.
The development is part of Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration’s efforts to strengthen specialised healthcare in the state and reduce the need for residents to travel abroad for advanced medical treatment.
The surgery will be led by Prof. Kingsley Ekwueme, a Consultant Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgeon and Lead Urological Surgeon at Glan Clwyd Hospital in the United Kingdom.
Prof. Ekwueme is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS) and founder of The Prostate Clinic. He is internationally recognised for his expertise in robotic and minimally invasive surgery.
His involvement is expected to bring international expertise to the landmark procedure as Imo begins a new phase in advanced surgical care.
Governor Uzodimma is expected to witness the operation, underscoring the administration’s investment in specialised medical facilities and technology.
The IROC was established as part of the governor’s plan to position Imo as a destination for advanced healthcare services and reduce the number of residents seeking specialised treatment outside Nigeria.
The introduction of robotic-assisted surgery marks a significant moment in the state’s healthcare development and places Imo among Nigerian states embracing advanced surgical technology.
