Imo State has taken a major step toward transforming its healthcare sector by signing a landmark multi-partner agreement to establish a world-class medical facility powered by artificial intelligence and robotic surgery.

Governor Hope Uzodimma approved the agreement, paving the way for the introduction of advanced medical technologies, including the da Vinci robotic surgical system, marking the first partnership of its kind in Nigeria.

“This is a major breakthrough in our medical programme. We are determined to set up a world-class medical facility using artificial intelligence, robotic surgery, and advanced medical care for our people,” Uzodimma said.

The project brings together the Imo State Government, Heartland Hospital Management Corporation, The Prostate Clinic, and Imo Digital City Limited, combining hospital administration reform with cutting-edge surgical innovation.

At the heart of the initiative is Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, a globally recognized robotic surgeon and pioneer of robotic surgery in West Africa, who hails from Imo State.

“We are fortunate that Professor Kingsley Ekwueme is one of our own. He has agreed to bring his expertise back home, and the government will fully support him,” Uzodimma said.

The Governor confirmed that all necessary approvals have been secured, with operations expected to begin before the end of the year. The facility aims to reduce medical tourism abroad while positioning Imo as a hub for advanced healthcare.

“This will attract medical tourism to Imo State and ensure our people have access to quality healthcare at home,” Uzodimma added.

Professor Ekwueme described the partnership as unprecedented for Nigeria. “This is historic. It has never happened before in Nigeria, and for it to take place in Imo State is truly remarkable,” he said.

Ekwueme noted that the decision to return to Imo was influenced by the state’s quiet but far-reaching healthcare transformation, including the Imo State Health Insurance Scheme, which has enrolled over 1.4 million people.

“Bringing robotic surgery home is both a professional and personal milestone. We first developed robotic surgery in West Africa in Lagos; now, bringing it to Imo will have a lasting impact,” he said.

Under the agreement, Heartland Hospital Management Corporation will manage hospital operations, while The Prostate Clinic and Imo Digital City Limited will provide the technical infrastructure and specialized medical equipment. Implementation begins immediately, including installation of robotic surgical systems and staff training.