Lagos: Nigerian survivors of prostate cancer have shared testimonies of recovery after successful robotic surgeries at The Prostate Clinic (TPC). They spoke at the 10th anniversary event of The Prostate Clinic (TPC), an event which also marked a milestone of 100 successful robotic surgeries, in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Maj.-Gen John Enenche, a prominent survivor, described his experience as ‘divine intervention’ following a routine check that revealed a dangerously high PSA level. Enenche, a former Nigerian Army spokesperson, noticed changes in his body, with his PSA level escalating from 8.5 to 14.2. Fearing for his life, Enenche initially requested radical surgery but underwent a four-hour robotic procedure at TPC, preserving his quality of life. He recounted, “I heard clearly: ‘Go and check yourself, check your prostate, check your kidneys.’ That instruction saved my life.”
Further investigations showed serious concerns, leading to fears of cancer. “Fear took over,” he said, sharing his initial request for the removal of everything to ensure survival. However, the CEO of TPC, Prof. Kingsley Ekwueme, assured him of a more measured approach, offering confidence and clarity. Enenche described the robotic surgery as seamless, expressing gratitude for the life he regained.
Other survivors, including Mr. Innocent Ihebuzor and Mr. Emmanuel Okolie, also shared their stories. Okolie, who traveled from Canada for treatment, revealed that his diagnosis was shocking, prompting him to seek timely treatment in Lagos due to delays in Canada. His successful procedure led to a swift recovery. Ihebuzor recounted a harrowing experience of frequent urination, which returned to normal post-surgery.
Ichie Osigwe’s narrative was poignant, given his wife’s recent death from cancer. Despite a PSA level of 69, Ekwueme assured him of survival, a promise fulfilled as Osigwe declared, “Today, I am alive.” Mr. Adesina Alabi shared his journey, noting a PSA level spike to 7.9 in 2025 and undergoing robotic surgery with smooth recovery. Mr. Ben Alozie, a journalist, emphasized that “prostate cancer is not a death sentence,” expressing relief at being practically cancer-free.
Prof. Ekwueme, Lead Robotic Surgeon and CEO of TCP, highlighted the significance of robotic prostate cancer surgeries, marking a shift toward advanced cancer care in Nigeria. Robotic-assisted surgery is globally recognized for its precision and reduced risk of complications, offering a significant step in reducing reliance on medical treatment abroad. Ekwueme noted that 80 percent of Nigerian men seek help too late, but the survivors represent a shift toward early detection.
According to Ekwueme, TPC has treated patients from Nigeria and countries like Ghana, Cameroon, C´te d’Ivoire, Brazil, the U.S., the UK, and Canada. The milestone reflects increasing awareness and demand for specialized treatment, with surgeries conducted safely and patients returning home. Ekwueme stressed the importance of awareness, early screening, and improved access to care, stating, “Prostate cancer is curable if detected early.”
The clinic plans to expand with a new dedicated robotic center in Imo, combining robotic surgery with world-class oncology and radiotherapy. Ekwueme also announced research focused on African genetics to develop effective treatments for Black patients. He urged Nigerian men over 45 or with a family history to get regular PSA tests, emphasizing the curability of prostate cancer if caught early. “We have started the journey. Now we must expand it so more lives can be saved,” Ekwueme concluded.