The advanced technology could expand access to specialised prostate treatment in Nigeria, potentially reducing the need for some patients to travel abroad for medical care.
For many Nigerian men living with an enlarged prostate, frequent trips to the toilet, difficulty urinating and disrupted sleep can become part of everyday life. For some, the condition can significantly affect their comfort, independence and quality of life.
But a new development in Nigeria’s specialist healthcare sector could expand treatment options for patients battling prostate-related urinary problems.
Grandville Medical Centre, Surulere, Lagos, has commissioned what it describes as Nigeria’s first Potent 160W Holmium Laser system for Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP), an advanced, minimally invasive surgical procedure for treating benign prostatic enlargement.
The commissioning, held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, brought together urologists, medical experts and other healthcare stakeholders to examine advances in endourology and the growing role of technology in improving specialised medical care.
The initiative involves Highendurology, a specialist urological service based at Grandville Medical Centre, and Think Robotics, its technology arm.
A new option for men with prostate enlargement
Benign prostatic enlargement is a non-cancerous increase in the size of the prostate gland, which can press against the urethra and obstruct the flow of urine.
Depending on the severity of the condition, affected men may experience frequent urination, difficulty starting or maintaining a urine stream, a feeling that the bladder has not emptied completely, and repeated waking at night to urinate.
HoLEP offers a minimally invasive surgical approach to treating the condition. The procedure uses a holmium laser to separate and remove obstructive prostate tissue, helping to relieve urinary symptoms in appropriately selected patients.
With the introduction of the Potent 160W system, Grandville Medical Centre is seeking to expand the range of advanced urological procedures available within Nigeria.
For patients, the significance of such an investment goes beyond the equipment itself. Access to specialised treatment locally could reduce the financial and logistical burdens associated with seeking medical care overseas, although the actual benefits will depend on availability, affordability and appropriate patient selection.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Taiwo Opeyemi Alabi, robotic surgeon, Head of the Urology Division at Grandville Medical Centre and Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Committee on Medical Innovations and Entrepreneurship, described the technology as the first of its kind in Nigeria.
He said its introduction marked a new dawn for advanced prostate care in the country, highlighting the potential of modern surgical technology to improve the management of urological conditions.
Medical experts highlight the need to strengthen local capacity
The commissioning also provided an opportunity for medical professionals to discuss how investments in specialised equipment could help strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system and expand access to advanced procedures.
Professor Akin Osibogun noted that initiatives such as the one at Grandville Medical Centre could contribute to reducing medical tourism by making specialised treatments previously sought abroad available within Nigeria.
He emphasised the importance of developing local capacity to deliver advanced medical care, giving more Nigerians the opportunity to receive specialised treatment closer to home.
For patients and their families, access to appropriate treatment within the country could mean less time spent arranging overseas medical appointments, fewer travel-related expenses and greater opportunities for follow-up care at home.
However, the extent to which these benefits can be realised will depend on whether such services are accessible to patients across different income groups and supported by adequate healthcare infrastructure.
Dr. Ayobami Aranmolate, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Grandville Medical Group, described the introduction of the Potent 160W HoLEP laser system as a potential game changer for specialist healthcare in Nigeria.
He said the development could improve access to a broader range of urological services and strengthen the country’s capacity to provide advanced treatment locally.
Similarly, Dr. Olayinka Atilola, National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association, called on the government and well-meaning individuals to support medical innovations capable of strengthening local healthcare delivery and curbing the growing reliance on overseas medical services.
Beyond the machine: Making advanced care accessible
While the commissioning represents a technological milestone for the facility, medical experts recognise that advanced equipment alone cannot address the challenges confronting Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
The successful delivery of specialised procedures also depends on the availability of trained medical personnel, appropriate infrastructure, reliable maintenance, continuous professional development and effective patient-care systems.
Affordability is another important consideration. Even when advanced procedures are available locally, their impact on public health will remain limited if the cost places them beyond the reach of many patients.
For Nigeria, therefore, the broader challenge is to ensure that investments in medical innovation translate into tangible improvements in access, quality of care and patient outcomes.
The introduction of the laser system at Grandville Medical Centre places the facility among institutions seeking to expand the country’s capacity for specialised urological treatment through technology and professional collaboration.
Through Highendurology, Think Robotics and Grandville Medical Centre, the initiative also highlights the potential role of partnerships between clinical specialists and technology-focused organisations in advancing healthcare delivery.
For Nigerian men experiencing symptoms of prostate enlargement, the development offers a reason to pay closer attention to available treatment options and seek timely medical assessment rather than endure persistent urinary difficulties in silence.
Ultimately, the success of this innovation will be measured not only by the sophistication of the equipment commissioned, but also by how effectively it helps patients access safe, appropriate and affordable treatment.
Innocent Onoh
