Uzodimma Announces Imo’s First Robotics-Assisted Surgery at Specialist Hospital

Imo State has recorded its first robotics-assisted surgery, with Governor Hope Uzodimma announcing the milestone at Imo Specialist Hospital, Umuguma.

Uzodimma disclosed the development on Friday, August 21, describing the successful procedure as a major step forward for healthcare delivery in the state.

“Today, I am delighted as we witness a historic milestone at Imo Specialist Hospital, Umuguma, with the first robotics-assisted surgery,” the governor said in a statement shared on his X account.

The governor said the achievement followed the completion of an upgrade of the specialist hospital, including the construction of a dedicated building for its Robotics Center.

According to Uzodimma, the centre is being operated through a public-private partnership (PPP) and has been equipped with modern medical facilities, advanced technology and upgraded infrastructure.

He said the investment was designed to improve access to quality healthcare for residents while positioning Imo Specialist Hospital to provide services that meet higher medical standards.

Uzodimma also said the state government wants the facility to develop into a medical tourism destination, attracting patients from other parts of Nigeria and beyond. “Beyond serving our people, our vision is to make the hospital a credible destination for medical tourism,” he said.

The governor described the first robotics-assisted surgery as evidence of his administration’s wider plan to modernise the state’s healthcare system. He said the project would help build public confidence in local healthcare services while improving the state’s capacity to deliver advanced medical treatment.