How a 69-Year-Old Nigerian Man Became the First Ever Recipient of a Living-Donor Kidney Transplant at FMC Abuja

By Achimi muktar

In an unprecedented medical achievement, the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Abuja has completed its first-ever living-donor kidney transplant, marking a monumental milestone for healthcare in Nigeria. On May 6, a 69-year-old Nigerian male, suffering from end-stage renal disease, became the recipient of a life-saving kidney transplant, thanks to the unwavering generosity of a 39-year-old close relative who donated one of his kidneys.

The groundbreaking procedure, which was conducted under the expertise of Dr. Ernest Aniede and a dedicated team of surgeons, nephrologists, and medical professionals, has not only offered a new lease on life for the elderly patient but also positioned FMC Abuja as a leading institution in advanced medical care.

The living-donor kidney transplant, which typically involves a healthy individual offering a kidney to someone they know, is often considered the most effective form of treatment for those suffering from kidney failure. The 69-year-old recipient’s long battle with kidney disease ended when his relative made the selfless decision to save his life.

Speaking about the success of the surgery, Prof. Saad Ahmed, the Medical Director of FMC Abuja, expressed immense pride. "This is a momentous step forward, not only for our hospital but for Nigeria’s healthcare system as a whole. It represents a significant leap toward providing life-changing treatment for kidney failure patients and showcases the advancements possible in our nation’s medical landscape," he stated.

The surgery, conducted with meticulous care in a sterile environment, was designed to minimize risks and ensure the best possible outcomes for both the donor and recipient. Following the procedure, both the patient and the donor have made remarkable recoveries, with both now awaiting discharge from the hospital.

Prof. Ahmed also took the opportunity to thank President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing support of healthcare reforms and initiatives aimed at tackling kidney disease in Nigeria. The government’s focus on expanding dialysis access and increasing funding for kidney disease research has been pivotal in achieving such successes.

Both the recipient and the donor expressed heartfelt gratitude to the medical team, thanking them for their professionalism and dedication throughout the entire process. This groundbreaking transplant marks not only a personal victory for the individuals involved but also signals the bright future of healthcare in Nigeria, where advanced treatments and life-saving surgeries are increasingly within reach.

This landmark procedure is a testament to the dedication of FMC Abuja’s medical team and a hopeful glimpse into the future of kidney treatment in the region and beyond.