Write Hatem Mohamed
Afreximbank President Hails AMCE as “Model of African Excellence” on First Anniversary
From Vision to Impact: New Abuja Medical Hub Delivers World-Class Care to 20 Countries
–
Afreximbank President Visits AMCE Abuja as Landmark Health Facility Marks One Year of Impact
As part of a working tour of Nigeria and the wider region, Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), visited the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) in Abuja on July 3, 2026. The visit reaffirmed Afreximbank’s commitment to supporting Africa’s health care sovereignty.
Partnership with King’s College Hospital to Transform Specialist Care
Developed by Afreximbank in partnership with King’s College Hospital, London, the AMCE was established to transform specialist healthcare delivery in Africa. Its mandate is to strengthen clinical capacity, advance research and education, and build a sustainable ecosystem for world-class care on the continent, while reducing dependence on medical travel abroad.
5,000 Patients from 20 Countries in First Year
In its first year of operation, the AMCE has moved from vision to measurable impact. The Centre has registered more than 5,000 patients from over 20 countries across four continents, underscoring its growing role as a regional and global referral center for advanced specialist healthcare.
Major Clinical Milestones Achieved
Beyond the numbers, the AMCE has delivered life-changing care. In its first year, it performed West Africa’s first Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) for lung cancer, treating an octogenarian with a localized tumor using a highly precise, non-invasive technique.
The Centre also completed its first complex Triple Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), proving that advanced cardiac care can now be delivered to global standards within Africa. In addition, two successful stem cell transplants were carried out.
40,000 Diagnostic Tests and Launch of Nuclear Medicine
The AMCE’s advanced laboratory processed more than 40,000 diagnostic tests and investigations. It completed 10 open-heart surgeries, 11 cardiac procedures, 99 catheterization lab procedures, and 173 anesthesia-supported procedures in just one year.
The Centre has also launched nuclear medicine services. Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography (SPECT/CT) imaging is now available for bone scans, renograms, and perfusion scans, with Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) imaging scheduled to begin later this year.
“A Compelling Demonstration of African Excellence”
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Elombi described the progress as “a compelling demonstration of African excellence, institutional resolve, and shared purpose.”
He said: “The AMCE provides health services and advances Africa’s health sovereignty while affirming our collective capacity to take responsibility for our own lives and future. This is a world-class quaternary healthcare facility delivering medical services that many would previously have sought beyond the continent. Nigerians, and citizens across Africa, must take full advantage of this facility—built by African institutions with the steadfast support of our governments.”
600 Staff from 12 Nationalities and Great Place to Work Certification
AMCE Chief Executive Officer, Brian Deaver, said the visit marks an important milestone. “Our progress demonstrates that Africa can build and sustain world-class centers of excellence,” he noted.
Today, the AMCE employs more than 600 clinical and non-clinical professionals representing 12 nationalities. Earlier this year, it also earned Great Place to Work® Certification, with 90 percent of employees affirming it is a great place to work.
Tour of Departments and Long-Term Expansion Plans
Dr. Elombi toured key clinical departments, interacted with healthcare professionals, and received updates on operational performance and long-term expansion plans. He thanked staff for their dedication to building a new benchmark for specialist healthcare in Africa.
