Nigeria’s prostate centre records 100 successful robotic surgeries in one year

By Olayimika Raimi 

Nigeria’s healthcare landscape is gradually evolving, particularly in the area of prostate cancer treatment, as more advanced solutions become available within the country. One notable example is The Prostate Centre, a specialist hospital leveraging robotic-assisted surgery to manage prostate cancer.

Within just one year of operation, the facility has successfully treated 100 patients, reflecting growing local capacity to handle complex medical conditions that previously required treatment abroad.

The experiences shared by patients point to both effective treatment and improved quality of life. Many described their procedures as smooth, with faster recovery and minimal disruption to daily activities. For some, symptoms such as frequent urination and discomfort, which had significantly affected their routines, were resolved after surgery. The confidence in the centre’s expertise has also attracted patients from outside Nigeria, including countries like Canada and Ghana, further reinforcing its emerging reputation.

Despite these advancements, a major challenge persists in the form of late diagnosis. A significant number of Nigerian men still seek medical attention only when the disease has reached an advanced stage, limiting treatment options and reducing survival chances. This pattern continues to be driven by low awareness, delayed health-seeking behaviour, and limited routine screening.

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Medical experts continue to stress the importance of early detection, particularly through Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) testing. Regular screening is strongly advised for men aged 40 and above, as early identification of the disease significantly improves treatment outcomes.

However, fear and misinformation remain key barriers. Many men delay seeking help due to concerns about complications, including the potential impact on sexual function, even though modern surgical techniques are designed to preserve both life and overall well-being.

There is also a need to address persistent myths surrounding prostate cancer. Health professionals emphasize that the disease is primarily influenced by factors such as age, genetics, and ethnicity, rather than lifestyle choices alone. They also caution against outdated treatment practices that are no longer considered standard in modern care.

The progress recorded by The Prostate Centre highlights a broader shift towards strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system. With improved technology, skilled professionals, and increasing patient trust, the country is steadily positioning itself as a destination for advanced medical treatment.

At the same time, experts continue to call for increased awareness, encouraging men to prioritize regular screening and to overcome the fear and silence that often lead to late presentation.