Africa’s ambition for healthcare independence took a major step forward today with the opening of the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) in Abuja.
Developed by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in partnership with King’s College Hospital London, the $300 million facility offers specialised services in oncology, haematology, cardiology, and general medicine.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, led the launch ceremony attended by top government and private sector officials.
The centre, built to global clinical standards, aims to reduce the $6–10 billion Africans spend annually on treatment abroad.
“This centre is more than a hospital—it is a place to heal the sick and train the future,” said President Tinubu in remarks delivered by Shettima. “It proves that Africa is ready to compete globally in healthcare.”
Afreximbank President Prof. Benedict Oramah shared how his own health crisis in 2013, which required evacuation to London, inspired the vision.
“Africa must invest in its own health sovereignty,” he said. “AMCE is proof that African institutions can solve African challenges.”
He also launched the Africa Life Sciences Foundation to support medical research and called for African and international partners to invest.
AMCE CEO Brian Deaver described the centre as a “healthcare revolution” offering early diagnosis, advanced treatment, long-term care, research, and education. “This is a sustainable blueprint for African healthcare,” he said.
King’s College Hospital CEO Professor Clive Kay said the partnership would help deliver a model of care suited to Africa’s needs.
The centre opens with 170 beds and is expected to expand to 500.
It includes the region’s largest stem cell lab, five operating theatres, three catheterisation labs, an intensive care unit, and advanced imaging technology.
A second 350-bed hospital, nursing and medical schools, and research centres are planned.
AMCE Abuja is now open, marking a new chapter for healthcare in Africa—led by African institutions and driven by African priorities.