Nigeria has achieved a historic milestone in medical innovation as a team of specialists at The Prostate Clinic (TPC) in Lagos successfully performed the country’s first UroLift surgery, a minimally invasive procedure for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as prostate enlargement.
The groundbreaking operation was led by Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, a renowned Consultant Urological, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Surgeon, marking a major step forward for urological care in Nigeria and West Africa. The procedure, conducted last week, was described as successful, with the patient recovering rapidly and showing significant improvement.
“This is a landmark achievement for Nigerian medicine and men’s health,” Prof. Ekwueme said. “UroLift offers patients relief from prostate obstruction without the complications associated with traditional surgery or long-term medication.”
The UroLift System is an advanced, minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve urinary symptoms caused by BPH by lifting and holding the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way, so it no longer blocks the urethra. Unlike conventional procedures, it does not involve cutting or removing prostate tissue, allowing for faster recovery and reduced side effects such as sexual dysfunction or incontinence.
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According to Prof. Ekwueme, the successful introduction of the technology places Nigeria among a select group of countries offering this cutting-edge solution.
“Our goal is to ensure that men in Nigeria and across Africa can access world-class medical interventions locally, without the need to travel abroad,” he added.
The Prostate Clinic (TPC), which specializes in advanced urological care, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery, emphasized that the achievement reflects its ongoing commitment to innovation, training, and excellence in patient care.
Medical experts have hailed the development as a significant advancement in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, particularly in addressing prostate diseases—a leading health challenge among men over 50. Studies show that BPH affects nearly 40% of men above middle age in Nigeria, often leading to urinary complications and reduced quality of life.
Health analysts say the successful UroLift procedure could open new opportunities for medical tourism and inspire further investment in minimally invasive surgery across Africa.
With this success, Nigeria joins countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom where UroLift has become a standard treatment option for prostate enlargement.