The milestone followed a partnership with RoboMed Global to expand access to minimally invasive surgery in Nigeria. The first procedure involved a robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy for localised prostate cancer. The hospital expects the patient to leave within 24 hours.

The development could help more Nigerians access advanced surgical care without travelling abroad.

Robotic Surgery: Smaller incisions, less pain

Robotic surgery offers several advantages because surgeons operate through small incisions. These smaller cuts can reduce tissue damage compared with some traditional open procedures. They can also mean less postoperative pain and lower wound infection risks.

The robotic surgeon explained that the technology also improves precision during delicate procedures.

“Every human surgeon has some degree of hand tremor, which can reduce precision,” he said.

According to him, robotic systems can provide greater control during tissue manipulation. However, robotic surgery does not automatically make every operation better. Its suitability depends on the patient, procedure and surgeon’s expertise.

Robotic Surgery: Better precision during complex procedures

The technology allows surgeons to control specialised instruments from a console. These instruments can provide enhanced movement and precision inside the body. For prostate cancer patients whose disease remains localised, robotic surgery can help remove the prostate.

RoboMed co-founder Obi Davies-Ekwenna, a professor of urology, said the technology could also support kidney cancer operations. He stressed that developing robotic surgery in Nigeria requires strong institutions and sustained investment.

“To do this kind of job sustainably, we need reputable people because this race is a long marathon,” he said.

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Nigeria builds local expertise

RHV chief executive Dr Adedamola Dada said the partnership extends beyond providing surgery. The hospital plans to establish a robotic surgery training academy for Nigerian healthcare professionals.

RHV also plans to work with Redeemers University and the National Postgraduate College. The institutions will develop training programmes and curricula for robotic surgery. Dada said the goal was to create a sustainable pipeline of trained professionals.

“This initiative will provide opportunities for training and help build a sustainable pipeline,” he said.

Bringing advanced care closer home

Dada said the initiative aims to reduce the need for Nigerians to travel overseas.

“We are happy about this feat,” he said. “The objective is to bring the best possible healthcare services to the country.”

He added that patients could access advanced procedures locally at lower costs than overseas treatment.

RHV described the first operation as a major milestone in Nigeria’s healthcare journey. The hospital also thanked its surgeons, nurses, anaesthesia team and technical staff. It said the first robotic-assisted prostatectomy represented only the beginning of its plans for advanced surgical care.

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