American Patients Choosing Nigeria for Affordable Kidney Transplants – Vice President Shettima

American Patients Choosing Nigeria for Affordable Kidney Transplants – Vice President Shettima

Nigeria’s Rise in Reverse Medical Tourism
Vice President Kashim Shettima recently shared insights into the rising trend of reverse medical tourism, with patients from the United States and other countries traveling to Nigeria for kidney transplants. This growing shift is driven by the combination of affordable healthcare and world-class expertise available in Nigerian hospitals.

During a courtesy visit by the Nigerian Association of Nephrology at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Shettima emphasized the remarkable progress Nigerian medical institutions have made in kidney care. He pointed out that Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre, a renowned medical facility, is now attracting patients from across the globe.

“Reverse medical tourism is becoming more common, largely due to the high level of care available at some of our hospitals,” Shettima said. “Just recently, 13 patients from the United States came to Nigeria for kidney transplants at Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre because the costs are much lower, and they receive the same level of expertise found anywhere in the world.”

Challenges for Patients Despite Affordable Care
Shettima acknowledged the financial struggles that patients often face, as many resort to selling their homes or relying on government assistance to cover the costs of kidney transplants. Despite the affordability of the transplant surgeries themselves, the post-transplant care—including lifelong immunosuppressant medication—remains a significant financial burden.

“While getting a kidney transplant is challenging, life after the transplant presents even more difficulties for many patients. The cost of post-transplant care, especially immunosuppressants, is a constant challenge,” Shettima added.

Healthcare Initiatives in Borno State
Reflecting on his time as Governor of Borno State, Shettima highlighted several healthcare initiatives he introduced, such as a free maternal care program. His government provided essential supplies to new mothers, including food packs, and covered all medical expenses for childbirth, including caesarean sections. This initiative has seen a remarkable number of deliveries, with over 4,000 births recorded in less than eight months.

Training the Next Generation of Medical Professionals
Shettima also discussed his efforts to build a sustainable medical workforce in Nigeria. During his tenure as Governor, he sent 60 female students to study medicine in Sudan, and 58 of them successfully completed their studies and passed the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria licensing exams.

“The key to improving healthcare in Nigeria is to invest in specialized medical education, especially training women, who are more likely to remain and serve their communities,” Shettima stated.

Acknowledgment from the Nigerian Association of Nephrology
At the event, Dr. Olalekan Olatise, Chief Medical Director of Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre and Chairman of the 37th Scientific Conference of the Nigerian Association of Nephrology, praised Shettima’s role in supporting kidney care in Nigeria. Dr. Olatise revealed that the association will honor Vice President Shettima with the Kidney Champion Award for his dedication to kidney patients, including efforts to fund immunosuppressants and support the creation of specialized laboratories for post-transplant care.

The 37th Scientific Conference of the Nigerian Association of Nephrology, themed “Revolutionising Kidney Care in Nigeria: Evidence-Based Innovations,” will take place in Abuja from February 19-21, 2025. The conference is expected to bring together over 600 medical professionals, pharmaceutical companies, and dialysis equipment manufacturers.

Collaborations for Better Kidney Care
In another exciting development, Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre recently partnered with Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital in Sokoto to perform a successful kidney transplant, further strengthening Nigeria’s position as a hub for high-quality kidney care 

Vice president