Nigeria records first tele-robotic surgery as the surgeon operates remotely from Ogun to Abuja

Nigeria records first tele-robotic surgery as the surgeon operates remotely from Ogun to Abuja

Nigeria has reportedly recorded its first tele-robotic surgery, marking a significant development in the country’s medical and surgical technology.

The procedure, a robot-assisted right radical nephrectomy to remove a cancerous kidney tumor, was carried out through a collaboration between Redeemer’s Health Village (RHV) and RoboMed Global.

Professor Ekwenna Davis, a Professor of Urology and Transplantation and co-founder of RoboMed Global, controlled the robotic surgical system in real time from RHV in Mowe, Ogun State, while the patient was at Nisa Premier Hospital in Abuja, roughly 500 kilometres away.

The approximately three-hour operation relied on Starlink satellite internet, with MTN reportedly providing backup connectivity to help maintain communication between the surgeon and the robotic system.

Davis described the procedure as a pilot demonstrating how technology could potentially improve access to specialised surgical expertise in Nigeria.

He said the technology could eventually allow patients to receive complex procedures without traveling abroad while also creating opportunities for Nigerian medical specialists living overseas to contribute remotely.

However, Davis noted that internet disruptions and weather conditions could present challenges, highlighting the importance of reliable connectivity and strong safety measures.

RHV board chairman Dr. Kunle Onakoya also stressed that the robot does not perform surgery independently. He explained that the system remains under the control of a highly experienced surgeon, with the robotic technology essentially magnifying the surgeon’s precision and capabilities.

A major step for Nigeria’s healthcare technology—and potentially the beginning of a new era for remote surgery