Every year, thousands of Nigerians leave the country—not for vacations, but in search of life-saving healthcare. From India to the UK, Dubai to the U.S., an estimated $1.6 billion is spent annually on medical tourism. It’s a stark reflection of public mistrust in the nation’s healthcare system.
But quietly, that narrative is beginning to shift.
In Lagos, Kelina Hospital is leading a new era in Nigerian healthcare—blending world-class expertise with cutting-edge technology. Since its establishment in 2008, the hospital has recorded over 6,000 surgeries without a single death in the operating room—an extraordinary record in Nigeria.
At the forefront is Dr. Celsus Undie, Medical Director and urological surgeon, who highlighted one of Kelina’s biggest achievements: 500 successful HoLEP procedures (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) performed for patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) over the past six years.
“Most patients are already up and eating the same day as surgery,” Dr. Undie said. “By the next day, they’re walking around.”
Unlike traditional methods, the HoLEP procedure is minimally invasive, and over 80% of operations at Kelina are done under local or regional anaesthesia—keeping patients awake, reducing risk, and speeding up recovery.
Tackling Prostate Myths and Realities
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in African men, with 32 cases per 100,000 and a 50% mortality rate. Contrary to common myths, frequent sex does not prevent prostate cancer.
Kelina’s experts stress the importance of early testing—especially for men with a family history of prostate cancer. And in advanced cases, removing the cancerous gland (or even the testes, in some cases) remains the most effective treatment.
“Last year, we performed 54 prostate cancer surgeries. All patients maintained full urinary control, and many retained normal sexual function,” Undie revealed.
For younger, non-cancerous cases, procedures are designed to preserve fertility and sexual function. Where necessary, IVF options are also available.
Why Travel Abroad? The Local Option is Better
Despite these successes, many Nigerians still fly abroad for even minor surgeries—often at significantly higher costs.
“A patient paid $25,000 in the U.S. for a prostate surgery we perform here for under 30% of that,” Dr. Undie said.
“Flying 12 hours for a 45-minute surgery—like a hernia repair or biopsy—is not just wasteful, it’s risky.”
He added that many patients return from foreign hospitals with complications from simple procedures, such as infections from prostate biopsies.
A Platform for Nigerians Abroad
Kelina Hospital is also part of a broader vision to curb medical tourism by offering Nigerian-trained doctors practicing abroad a reason to return home.
“The government wants to bring our health professionals back. But they need modern platforms to work. That’s what we’re building,” Dr. Undie said.
In 2024, the hospital will receive its first surgical robot, marking a new chapter in robot-assisted surgery in Nigeria. Leading this innovation is Dr. Bertin Njinou, a renowned robotic surgeon licensed in Nigeria, France, and the U.S.
“Early detection is key,” Dr. Njinou stressed.
“PSA testing from age 40 for at-risk men can save lives.”
He also shared dietary tips for cancer prevention: broccoli, tomatoes, garlic, cucumber, and green tea.
More Than Just Surgeries
Kelina Hospital’s success isn’t just about numbers. It’s built on continuous professional development, regular international training, and an openness to partnerships with globally licensed surgeons.
“We’re not just improving access—we’re raising the bar,” said Erica Idoko, Head of Corporate Relations.
From being the first hospital to perform Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy in Nigeria to pioneering robotic surgery, Kelina is proving that world-class healthcare doesn’t have to come with a visa.
