Nigeria Raises the Bar (Again) with First Robotic Gynecological Surgery

In a defining moment for surgical care in the region, The Prostate Clinic (TPC) in Lagos, Nigeria has recorded West Africa’s first robotic gynecological surgery.

One year after partnering with R2 Surgical to bring the first surgical robot to West Africa, The Prostate Clinic is taking another bold leap forward with the further expansion of the region’s medical capabilities.

While The Prostate Clinic typically performs male-focused treatments, this procedure represented the clinic's expansion to women's healthcare. According to TPC Medical Director, Prof. Kingsley Ekwueme, the procedure marks a major development in the treatment of fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian tumors, and selected ectopic pregnancies. 

The successful robotic procedure, which took less than one hour, removed two large ovarian tumors from the patient, who enjoyed a same-day discharge and rapid recovery, returning to work the following day. 

Why Robotic Surgery?

According to Consultant Gynecologist, Prof. Yusuf Oshodi, "...robotic precision allows removal of affected tissue without compromising fertility." This patient "will be free from six months of pain, without damage to surrounding structures."

Due to the minimally-invasive nature of the procedures, robotic surgery offers patients a variety of proven outcomes, including smaller incisions, less discomfort, and faster recovery times. As UK-based consultant gynecologist, Mr. Olaolu Aladade, explains, "With robotic surgery,  patients return to work sooner and enjoy better psychological and economic outcomes."

A Turning Point for West Africa

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for Nigerian women to suffer from fibroids, endometriosis, and ovarian tumors, with up to 70 percent battling fibroids in certain areas of the country. Delayed fibroids treatment can lead to complications including anaemia and impaired heart function. 

Prof. Ekwueme's commitment to surgical innovation in West Africa is unmatched. As he told R2 Surgical in 2024, "I don’t want robotic surgery to be something only the wealthy can afford. Why should someone have to fly to India or the UK for a procedure that can now be done right here in Lagos?"

The Prostate Clinic has also partnered with the Imo State Government to establish Nigeria's first dedicated robotic surgery center - further evidence of Nigeria's pioneering role in robotic medicine. 

Partnering with R2 Surgical

R2 Surgical is proud to partner with Prof. Ekwueme and The Prostate Clinic to expand surgical access in Nigeria, West Africa, and beyond. 

To find out more about R2 Surgical's ability to assist in the building, service, and support of a surgical robotics program, contact us today. 

Sources

News Agency of Nigeria
https://nannews.ng/2026/01/25/nigerian-hospital-records-wafricas-first-robotic-gynaecological-surgery/