On September 19, 2026, Redeemer’s Health Village in Mowe, Ogun State, made history as the first medical facility in Nigeria to perform a telerobotic surgery, with the patient located more than 310 miles away at Nisa Premier Hospital in Abuja. In addition to highly trained physicians and incredible robotics, this groundbreaking accomplishment was made possible by the innovative and, ultimately, lifesaving developments of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology.

To operate, the surgeon at Redeemer’s Health Village used LEO satellite technology for internet connectivity to engage the surgical robot located with the patient in Abuja, Nigeria. As the surgeon operated, the robot responded in real time, performing a successful robot-assisted right radical nephrectomy — removal of the right kidney affected by a tumor.

From Professor Obi Davies Ekwenna, lead surgeon: “[Advanced technology] means access to experts from within and outside the country. Telesurgery can be done from any part of the world with precision, with excellent results.”

The Redeemer’s Health Village Board Chairman Dr. Kunle Onokoya added, “The kind of surgery that otherwise would have been inoperable, meaning that the risk from surgery was too great, is now being done with robot-assisted surgery.”

The robotic surgical system was connected through Starlink, with MTN, a South African multinational mobile telecommunications corporation, serving as a backup network, to deliver reliable, safe and accurate medical care. The operation also required the use of RoboMed Global, a medical technology company that brings advanced robotic-assisted surgery and training to West Africa. Following this procedure and partnership with RoboMed Global, Redeemer’s Health Village now plans to establish a robotic surgery academy with the medical technology company.

Nigeria’s integration of LEO satellite internet has enabled the country to meet the needs of its patients during a time when practicing doctors are in short supply. This showcases the important role innovative technology plays in expanding services, treatments and access to care for those who might not otherwise have access to such medical attention.

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