African Medical Centre of Excellence Opens in Abuja, Aims to Reduce Medical Tourism

L-R: Hon. Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Nigeria, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Former Governor of Ekiti State, H.E Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Senator Kashim Shettima, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria representing H.E Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria,  H.E Professor Benedict Oramah, CON, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and his wife, Mrs. Chinelo Oramah, Matron of Afreximbank Spouse Network (ASNET) during the commissioning ceremony of the African Medical Centre of Excellence Abuja (AMCE) on 5th June 2025. 
L-R: Hon. Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Nigeria, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Former Governor of Ekiti State, H.E Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Senator Kashim Shettima, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria representing H.E Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria,  H.E Professor Benedict Oramah, CON, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and his wife, Mrs. Chinelo Oramah, Matron of Afreximbank Spouse Network (ASNET) during the commissioning ceremony of the African Medical Centre of Excellence Abuja (AMCE) on 5th June 2025.

The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) officially welcomed patients and professionals, signaling a transformative step forward in Africa’s healthcare landscape. Developed through a $300 million investment by Afreximbank, in partnership with King’s College Hospital London, the state-of-the-art facility is positioned to elevate medical standards across the continent.

Located in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, AMCE offers top-tier services in oncology, hematology, cardiology, and general medicine—aimed not just at treating but also at training the next generation of African healthcare professionals. This initiative underscores Africa’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign health systems and tackling the staggering $6-10 billion spent annually by Africans seeking treatment abroad.

The opening was attended by Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu, alongside ministers of health, finance, foreign affairs, and key industry officials. Leaders emphasized that AMCE is more than a hospital; it’s a symbol of Africa’s resolve to build resilient, homegrown health systems.

President Tinubu highlighted ongoing national efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, pharmaceutical production, and regulatory capacity—aiming for sustainable, high-quality care accessible to all. “This centre is a testament that Africa is ready to compete globally in healthcare,” he stated.

Prof. Benedict Oramah, President of Afreximbank, shared a personal story that inspired the project, recounting his own near-fatal illness and the life-saving care he received at King’s College Hospital. “Today, we prove that Africa can provide world-class healthcare,” he said. He also announced the launch of the Africa Life Sciences Foundation to mobilize investment and research funding, calling on governments and partners to join in advancing African health innovations.

AMCE CEO Brian Deaver described the facility as a catalyst for a healthcare revolution—integrating diagnosis, treatment, education, and research into a seamless model. The hospital currently has 170 beds, with plans to expand to 500, and features Africa’s largest stem cell laboratory, advanced imaging equipment, and exclusive regional medical technologies.

Strategic partnerships with King’s College Hospital and The Christie NHS Foundation Trust will foster clinical excellence, research, and training. Future expansion includes a second hospital, medical and nursing schools, research centers, and residential facilities—aiming to position Nigeria as a continental leader in specialized healthcare and medical education.

Professor Clive Kay of King’s College NHS expressed pride in the collaboration, emphasizing the facility’s role in building sustainable, locally-led healthcare solutions.

As AMCE begins operations, it invites patients, researchers, and partners to join its mission of delivering world-class care and fostering innovation—ultimately advancing Africa’s health sovereignty and global standing.

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