Imo State is set to make medical history by establishing Nigeria's first-ever Robotic Surgical Centre, following a landmark agreement signed by Governor Hope Uzodimma.
A Groundbreaking Healthcare Partnership
On January 14, 2026, at the Government House in Owerri, Governor Hope Uzodimma formalised a strategic partnership with IDCL Surgicals Limited. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks a decisive move to bring cutting-edge, technology-driven medical services to the Heartland State and the wider nation.
The initiative will be executed through the state's central health management body, the Heartland Hospital Management Corporation Limited. Under the terms of the pact, this corporation will oversee hospital administration and clinical services, while IDCL Surgicals Limited brings its technical expertise to handle infrastructure, procurement of advanced equipment, and operational support.
Expertise and Vision Behind the Project
IDCL Surgicals Limited is led by Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, a renowned pioneer in Urological and Robotic Surgery. His team's expertise is central to this groundbreaking project, which promises to revolutionise surgical care in the region.
The centre will be equipped with state-of-the-art DaVinci robotic systems, enabling surgeons to perform complex, minimally invasive procedures with unprecedented precision. This technology is associated with numerous benefits for patients, including:
- Enhanced surgical accuracy and control for doctors.
- Reduced patient recovery times and shorter hospital stays.
- Significantly improved patient outcomes and reduced risk of complications.
More Than a Hospital: A Hub for Research and Tourism
Governor Uzodimma emphasised that this project is a cornerstone of his administration's commitment to attracting strategic investment and fostering robust public-private partnerships. His vision extends beyond treating patients in Imo State.
"We are not just building a surgical centre; we are creating a regional hub for advanced medical services," the Governor stated. He envisions the centre positioning Imo as a premier destination for medical tourism, drawing patients from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
Furthermore, the facility is designed to have a lasting impact on Nigeria's medical sector. It will double as a research and training facility, offering Nigerian medical professionals the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the latest robotic surgical technology. This capacity-building aspect is expected to elevate the standard of specialised healthcare nationwide.
This partnership between the Imo State Government and IDCL Surgicals Limited represents a major leap forward in modernising Nigeria's healthcare infrastructure, promising to deliver world-class, specialised care while fostering innovation and expertise within the country.
