Imo accelerates plans for robotic surgery to transform healthcare

By Emmanuel Iheaka, Owerri

The Imo State government has stepped up efforts to establish the state’s first-ever robotic surgical centre, part of a broader initiative to modernize healthcare delivery.

In January 2026, Governor Senator Hope Uzodimma announced a landmark multi-partner agreement to create a world-class medical facility powered by artificial intelligence and robotic surgical technology. To advance this vision, the Heartland Hospital Management Corporation (HHMC), which oversees healthcare administration in the state, recently convened a strategic meeting with key health agencies.

The session, held at HHMC headquarters in Owerri, brought together leaders from the Imo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (IMPHCDA), Imo State Specialist Hospital (ISSH), Owerri, and Imo State University Teaching Hospital (IMSUTH), Orlu, alongside senior HHMC executives. Discussions focused on the robotic surgical centre, facility upgrades, equipment modernization, and improved service delivery.

HHMC Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Emmanuel Ogueri, described the corporation as a flagship initiative of the governor, designed to modernize hospital administration, enhance efficiency, and coordinate clinical services statewide. “We are a team of professionals assembled to realize the lofty vision of the governor in healthcare. The transformation going on across sectors is also evident in healthcare, and we must sustain the momentum through collective effort,” Ogueri said.

Dr. Chima Oparaji, Chief Medical Director of ISSH Owerri, praised the ongoing reconstruction works and the upcoming robotic surgical centre as tangible signs of progress. He acknowledged previous sector neglect but expressed optimism about the lasting impact of Governor Uzodimma’s reforms.

Executive Secretary of IMPHCDA, Dr. Kosisochukwu Ekenjoku, emphasized the importance of regular coordination between primary healthcare services and HHMC to ensure integration and the realization of the administration’s goals.

Representing IMSUTH Orlu, Director of Administration Dr. Ben Bernard commended the governor’s revitalization efforts and HHMC’s management, urging policy continuity beyond the current administration to prevent setbacks that have historically affected the sector.

The push for robotic surgery underscores Imo State’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to provide efficient, affordable, and world-class healthcare for its residents.

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