In a groundbreaking medical feat, Professor Kingsley Ekwueme has etched his name in history as the pioneer of West Africa’s first robotic-assisted prostate cancer surgery. By establishing The Prostate Clinic (TPC) Nigeria Centre for Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgery, he is revolutionizing cancer treatment and giving Nigerians access to cutting-edge care without the need to travel abroad.
Bringing World-Class Expertise Home
Born and raised in Nigeria, Ekwueme’s medical journey started at the University of Ibadan before he honed his skills in the UK’s Merseyside surgical program. His passion for urological innovation led him to earn a doctorate in prostate cancer research at the University of Liverpool. Further training in France and Germany solidified his expertise, but his mission remained clear—to bridge the healthcare gap in Nigeria.
Determined to bring his global experience home, he launched TPC, West Africa’s first specialized center for robotic and laparoscopic prostate cancer surgery. The clinic boasts the Da Vinci robotic system, an advanced technology that enhances precision, minimizes blood loss, and drastically improves recovery times.
A Game-Changer for African Healthcare
Until now, robotic-assisted prostate cancer surgeries were only available in South Africa. Ekwueme’s achievement puts Nigeria at the forefront of medical innovation in West Africa.
“This is historic. Nigerians no longer have to travel abroad for world-class treatment. We are bringing the future of surgery home,” Ekwueme stated.
The first patient treated with the Da Vinci robotic system was discharged within 24 hours, required no blood transfusion, and had minimal scarring—outcomes nearly impossible with traditional surgery.
Beyond Innovation—A Life-Saving Mission
Ekwueme’s ambition extends beyond technological breakthroughs. His goal is to make high-quality prostate cancer treatment accessible and affordable for all Nigerians. He is advocating for government partnerships to subsidize costs and expand treatment options.
In another medical first, he is set to introduce a non-invasive treatment for benign prostate enlargement (BPH) with zero blood loss—a groundbreaking innovation in Africa.
Investing in the Future of Nigerian Healthcare
Beyond treating patients, Ekwueme is passionate about training the next generation of Nigerian surgeons in robotic-assisted techniques to ensure the long-term sustainability of these advancements.
“True transformation comes from knowledge transfer. We are equipping Nigerian doctors with the skills to provide world-class care,” he emphasized.
A decorated researcher, Ekwueme holds honorary lecturer positions at Bangor University, Cardiff University Medical School, and Swansea University Medical School. His work has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh Best Poster Prize and the Norman Gibbon Prize for Best Research Paper.
Pioneering a New Era in Nigerian Medicine
With cutting-edge technology, a commitment to affordability, and a vision for medical excellence, The Prostate Clinic Nigeria is setting new standards for cancer treatment in West Africa. But for Ekwueme, this is just the beginning. His ultimate mission? To position Nigeria as a global leader in medical innovation—one life-saving breakthrough at a time.
