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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Nigeria is increasingly becoming a destination for medical tourists seeking affordable and high-quality kidney transplants, according to Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Shettima highlighted this trend during a recent visit by the Nigerian Association of Nephrology (NAN), noting that patients from the United States are now travelling to Nigeria for treatment.
According to a statement issued by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President attributed this rise in “reverse medical tourism” to the affordability and expertise within Nigeria’s medical facilities.
He specifically mentioned Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre, where 13 patients from the U.S. recently underwent kidney transplants, citing the lower costs and comparable expertise available in Nigeria.
The Vice President stressed the importance of continued investment in specialised medical education to maintain and further this progress.
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He also acknowledged the financial difficulties faced by many Nigerian patients in affording post-transplant care, including the cost of immunosuppressant drugs.
In response to the outflow of Nigerian money for medical care abroad, the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to becoming a top destination for medical tourism in Nigeria and West Africa.
Additionally, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, stated that the Federal Government is strengthening the tertiary healthcare system to address medical tourism.
President Bola Tinubu’s agenda prioritises healthcare as a fundamental right for all Nigerians.
NAN plans to honour Vice President Shettima with the Kidney Champion Award in recognition of his support for kidney patients.
The association’s 37th Scientific Conference, themed “Revolutionising Kidney Care in Nigeria: Evidence-Based Innovations,” is scheduled to take place in Abuja from February 19–21, 2025.
