The Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, is preparing to make history as it announces plans to commence kidney transplant surgeries by the first quarter of 2025. This groundbreaking initiative, expected to provide relief to countless Nigerians battling kidney failure, also aims to curb the costly trend of medical tourism.
In an exclusive interview, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of ABUTH, Prof. Ahmed Umdagas, revealed the hospital’s readiness to offer cutting-edge urology services through its newly established Urology Centre of Excellence.
“By the first quarter of 2025, ABUTH will begin kidney transplant procedures. The delay we experienced was due to minor infrastructural adjustments,” Umdagas explained. “We now have most of the machines and equipment required, and our personnel have been thoroughly trained to deliver world-class services.”
A Modern Facility for All
Highlighting the hospital’s dedication to meeting diverse patient needs, Umdagas announced the completion of an Amenity Wing designed to cater to patients from various social classes.
“This new wing will provide options ranging from single-bed rooms to luxury suites for affluent patients,” he said. “It will feature a dedicated line and a website where patients can book appointments with specific specialists seamlessly.”
The CMD emphasized ABUTH’s determination to match global standards in healthcare delivery.
Tackling Medical Tourism
One of ABUTH’s primary goals is to reverse Nigeria’s reliance on foreign healthcare services, a trend that has drained the nation’s economy and burdened families with exorbitant costs.
Umdagas cited the hospital’s advanced diagnostic tools as a game changer. “Our fully functional 128 Slice CT Scan machine is available at just ₦30,000, compared to over ₦300,000 charged abroad,” he noted.
The hospital also boasts 1.5 Tesla and 0.2 Tesla MRI machines, offering high-quality imaging at rates significantly lower than those charged by private facilities in Nigeria.
In addition to diagnostics, ABUTH provides non-invasive treatments such as lithotripsy—a laser procedure used to break kidney stones without surgery.
“We’ve positioned ourselves as a hub for affordable and advanced healthcare,” Umdagas stated.
A New Era in Cancer Care
Expanding its horizons beyond urology, ABUTH is making strides in cancer treatment. A recent contract for the procurement of linear accelerator machines underscores the hospital’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art cancer care.
“This is a major step forward in improving cancer treatment outcomes in the region,” Umdagas said.
Celebrating IVF Success
Beyond kidney transplants and cancer care, ABUTH has also celebrated successes in in-vitro fertilization (IVF). According to Umdagas, the hospital recently marked five successful IVF cases in collaboration with its partners.
“To ensure more patients benefit, we plan to establish a dedicated unit for IVF services in our upcoming budgets,” he added.
The Road Ahead
ABUTH’s ambitious plans are part of a broader strategy to transform healthcare delivery in northern Nigeria and beyond. By investing in infrastructure, training personnel, and leveraging technology, the hospital is poised to become a beacon of hope for Nigerians seeking affordable and reliable medical care.
Umdagas concluded with a message of reassurance: “We are committed to offering services that rival the best in the world. ABUTH will continue to innovate and expand its offerings to meet the evolving healthcare needs of our people.”
With the countdown to 2025 already underway, many Nigerians are eagerly anticipating the launch of kidney transplant services at ABUTH—a development that promises to redefine the nation’s healthcare landscape.
