In a landmark achievement for Nigeria’s healthcare sector, The Prostate Clinic (TPC) in Lagos has successfully performed the country’s first-ever UroLift surgery, marking a major step forward in local prostate treatment and medical innovation.
The groundbreaking procedure was led by Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, a renowned Consultant Urological, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Surgeon, and founder of the clinic. Professor Ekwueme, who recently returned to Nigeria after years of practicing abroad, described the feat as “a defining moment for prostate care in Africa.”
The UroLift procedure, a minimally invasive treatment for prostate enlargement, was carried out with precision and success. The surgery, which took less than an hour, involves the insertion of tiny implants to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra—without cutting, removing tissue, or causing sexual side effects.
“What makes this remarkable,” Professor Ekwueme explained, “is that erection and ejaculation are completely preserved. This is a revolutionary alternative to traditional prostate surgeries.”
For decades, thousands of Nigerians have travelled overseas for prostate treatment, costing the nation billions annually. With this new development, experts say Nigeria is on the path to becoming a medical tourism destination for urological care.
Ekwueme emphasized that the UroLift procedure is suitable for men whose prostate size is under 80 millilitres and can be done under local or spinal anaesthesia, allowing patients to return home the same day.
“This milestone proves that Nigeria can deliver world-class medical care,” he said. “Our goal is to make the country the prostate treatment hub of Africa.”
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), one in six Nigerian men will develop a prostate condition in their lifetime, making this innovation a timely response to a growing public health concern.
Professor Ekwueme urged Nigerian men to seek early diagnosis and treatment, noting that untreated prostate enlargement can lead to severe complications, including kidney damage.
- “The UroLift offers a safe, modern, and effective solution without compromising sexual health,” he assured. “This is a new dawn for men’s health in Nigeria.”
