Agency Report
The Afe Babalola University Multi-System Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, has achieved another significant medical milestone with the successful completion of four additional kidney transplants.
Dr. Kolawole Ogundipe, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the hospital, said this during a news conference at the multi-billion Naira hospital situated within Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) in Ekiti State.
He said the successful surgical procedures took place between September 15th and September 17th, 2023, bringing the total number of kidney transplants conducted at the hospital since October 2021 to 14.
Ogundipe also confirmed that all four transplant patients, as well as their donors, are in stable conditions.
The CMD emphasised that this achievement underscores the vision of Afe Babalola, the Founder of the institution, who aimed to end medical tourism in the country by establishing a medical facility capable of providing high-quality and affordable healthcare services to the people without the need to seek treatment abroad.
Dr. Ogundipe reiterated the hospital’s commitment to ethical practices, particularly in the context of organ donations.
He stated that stringent rules and procedures are in place to ensure that donors are acting willingly and without any form of pressure or inducement. Donors are thoroughly interviewed and required to sign affidavits in line with global best practices.
Ogundipe further called on the Federal Government to initiate policies that address the challenges facing the nation’s health sector.
He urged policies aimed at stabilizing the exchange rate, making medical treatment more affordable in Nigeria compared to seeking healthcare abroad.
Dr. Olusegun Aremu, a neurologist at the hospital, expressed concern about the rising prevalence of kidney issues in the country.
He said ABUAD hospital is actively working to provide solutions to these challenges. He called on stakeholders to intensify efforts in advocating preventive measures for kidney failures in society.