Lagos set to become West Africa’s healthcare hub with specialised centres
Lagos State Government has announced plans to establish specialised medical centres offering advanced treatments and technologies, aiming to retain healthcare spending within the region and attract international patients.
Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, made the disclosure on Wednesday during the 2024 Annual Ministerial Press Briefing, commemorating the first-year of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term.
He said that the Centres of Excellence and Medical Tourism Initiative aims to position Lagos as a hub for high-quality healthcare services in West Africa, noting the setting up centres in specialties like cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, and neurology, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by specialists trained to deliver global-standard care.
According to Abayomi, “An excellent example of this initiative is the proposed Comprehensive Cancer Centre, slated to be located at Alausa in Ikeja.
“This facility is designed to provide a full spectrum of cancer care services, from early detection and diagnosis through various treatment modalities to palliative care.
“This centre aims to reduce the need for Nigerians and residents of neighbouring countries to travel abroad for cancer treatment, thereby retaining healthcare expenditure within the local economy and attracting patients from other regions,” he said.
He emphasised that the initiative would boost the local economy and also enhance the state’s reputation as a medical hub.
“To ensure that the centres of excellence are on par with international healthcare facilities, Lagos State is engaging in partnerships with reputed healthcare institutions from around the world.
“These collaborations help in the transfer of knowledge, medical expertise, and technological advancements,” he said.
The state Commissioner also announced the construction of facilities tailored to the needs of international patients.
He highlighted that to support these centres, the state is implementing strict regulatory measures and quality assurance systems to uphold high standards of medical care.
