Nigeria’s healthcare sector is taking a significant step into advanced medical innovation following the successful introduction of robot-assisted gynaecological surgery at a Lagos-based medical facility, a development that could reshape women’s healthcare access across West Africa.

The Prostate Clinic (TPC) recently carried out a robot-assisted procedure to remove ovarian tumours from a 30-year-old patient, marking a major expansion of robotic surgery beyond urology into women’s health.

The surgical team was led by Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, a consultant gynaecologist and robotic surgeon, alongside other highly trained specialists at TPC. According to the clinic, the operation was carried out successfully without complications, highlighting the growing expertise of Nigerian medical professionals in advanced surgical techniques.

While robotic technology has been widely adopted in advanced healthcare systems globally, its application in gynaecological procedures within West Africa has remained extremely limited until now.

Robotic gynaecological surgery allows surgeons to operate with enhanced precision through minimally invasive techniques. For patients, this often translates into reduced post-surgical pain, minimal blood loss, smaller scars, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery periods compared to traditional open surgery.

Medical experts say the availability of such procedures locally could significantly impact Nigeria’s healthcare landscape, particularly for women who previously had to travel abroad for complex surgeries. The cost of overseas medical treatment, combined with travel and accommodation expenses, has long placed advanced care beyond the reach of many patients.

Beyond patient care, the development highlights Nigeria’s growing capacity to adopt high-level medical technology and train specialists capable of operating it. Healthcare analysts note that expanding access to robotic surgery could help reduce medical tourism, retain healthcare spending within the country, and attract regional patients seeking advanced treatment options.

The procedure was carried out by a team of Nigerian specialists, demonstrating the increasing depth of local medical expertise. Industry observers say this progress underscores the importance of continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, training, and technology to ensure such innovations move beyond isolated milestones into mainstream medical practice.

Nigeria continues to explore the use of advanced surgical systems and the successful application of robotic technology in gynaecological care signals a broader shift toward modern, patient-centred healthcare delivery, with potential benefits extending well beyond a single medical facility.