The University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) has announced the resumption of kidney transplant services after a 15-year break, with the first 20 patients set to receive the surgery free of charge.
Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, Chief Medical Director (CMD) of UMTH, made the announcement during a press briefing held in Maiduguri on Wednesday. He said the service, which was first launched in 2010, has been revived with improved facilities and government support.
Ahidjo said the first 20 patients to be cleared for surgery will undergo kidney transplants free of charge. However, the cost of drugs and consumables, which is estimated at N5 million per patient, will be covered by donors.
“We have fully resumed kidney transplant services. The hospital now has the largest kidney centre in the country with 85 beds and four dedicated operating theatres, all fully equipped,” Ahidjo said.
He noted that UMTH aims to make kidney transplants among the most affordable in West Africa. Dialysis at the hospital currently costs just N12,000—less than \$8—compared to up to \$1,000 in private centres or abroad.
Before now, most patients from the North East had to travel out of the country for kidney transplants, spending up to N13.5 million for surgery alone, excluding travel and accommodation. With the relaunch of the transplant programme at UMTH, patients in the region can now access life-saving treatment at far lower costs.
The CMD appealed to well-meaning Nigerians and organisations to support the hospital by donating funds for drugs and materials needed for future transplants.
He also acknowledged the contributions of key supporters, including former TETFUND chairman and Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum. Governor Zulum recently approved a special N50 million research grant for the hospital to study the root causes of rising kidney disease cases in the state.
According to Ahidjo, preliminary findings suggest that kidney disease in the region may be linked to diabetes, hypertension, and dehydration caused by the extreme heat. He advised residents to stay hydrated, especially during hot seasons.
“This is not just a return to transplant services. It is a complete overhaul with modern facilities, strong government support, and a new commitment to saving lives,” the CMD added.
The resumption of transplant services is seen as a major healthcare breakthrough in the North East, where kidney disease is prevalent and treatment options have long been limited.
