Vice President Kashim Shettima revealed that 13 US patients traveled to Nigeria for kidney transplants at Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre, highlighting a rise in reverse medical tourism. He emphasized the need for specialized healthcare investment while the Nigerian Association of Nephrology prepares to honor him for his contributions to kidney care.
Vice President Kashim Shettima has revealed that 13 patients from the United States recently traveled to Nigeria for kidney transplants at the Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre. He described the development as part of a growing trend of reverse medical tourism, where international patients seek affordable yet high-quality healthcare in Nigeria.
Speaking at the Presidential Villa during a visit by the Nigerian Association of Nephrology (NAN), Shettima emphasized the need for greater investment in specialized medical training to sustain this progress. He praised Dr. Olalekan Olatise, Chief Medical Director of Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre, for his dedication to kidney care.
Shettima acknowledged that while transplants offer a lifeline, many patients struggle with post-surgery expenses, including the cost of immunosuppressants. He recounted his past healthcare initiatives in Borno State, including sponsoring female students to study medicine abroad, most of whom now serve in the medical field.
The NAN conference, themed "Revolutionizing Kidney Care in Nigeria: Evidence-Based Innovations," is scheduled for February 19-21, 2025, in Abuja, with over 600 participants expected. The association announced plans to honor Shettima with the Kidney Champion Award for his contributions to kidney patient care.
Additionally, Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre has expanded its partnerships, recently collaborating with Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital in Sokoto to successfully perform a kidney transplant.
This growing recognition of Nigeria’s medical expertise could further position the country as a destination for specialized healthcare services.
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