AMCE Nears Completion, Poised to Revolutionize Africa’s Healthcare Landscape

Upon its opening, AMCE Abuja will offer comprehensive services in oncology, haematology, cardiovascular care, and general healthcare, marking a transformative leap in Africa’s healthcare capabilities.

The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE), a pioneering tertiary medical institution spearheaded by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in collaboration with King’s College Hospital, London, is on track to redefine Africa’s healthcare landscape. Ahead of its highly anticipated launch in June 2025, AMCE hosted a high-level stakeholder and media tour to showcase its construction milestones and reaffirm its mission to build a world-class medical city in Abuja, Nigeria.

Led by Prof. Benedict Oramah, President of Afreximbank and Chairman of the AMCE Board, the distinguished delegation included top Nigerian government officials and influential leaders in healthcare and business. Notable attendees were Deputy Senate President of Nigeria, Senator Barau Jibrin; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Mrs. Toyin Saraki, Founder-President of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa; Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong; and Kabiru Rabiu, Group Executive Director of BUA Group. The tour provided an exclusive walkthrough of the facility’s cutting-edge infrastructure and highlighted significant project advancements.

Major Milestones and State-of-the-Art Infrastructure

Attendees witnessed firsthand the hospital’s progress, including the completion of civil and structural works as of February 2025. Key developments include the final stages of interior tiling, vinyl flooring installation, lift system integration, and ongoing external roadworks and infrastructure services. Rigorous quality assurance and control measures have been implemented to ensure the highest standards in construction and medical infrastructure.

Upon its opening, AMCE Abuja will offer comprehensive services in oncology, haematology, cardiovascular care, and general healthcare, marking a transformative leap in Africa’s healthcare capabilities.

A Vision for Transformative Healthcare

Prof. Benedict Oramah emphasized the transformative potential of AMCE, stating: "The Africa Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) represents a defining moment in Africa’s pursuit of self-sufficiency in healthcare. For too long, our continent has borne the heavy burden of non-communicable diseases, capital flight from medical tourism, and the exodus of skilled professionals seeking opportunities abroad. AMCE is set to change that narrative."

He continued, "This facility will deliver world-class, lifesaving care to over 350,000 patients within its first five years. It will create 3,000 jobs, stimulate intra-African trade in medical services, and strengthen critical supply chains in pharmaceuticals and healthcare delivery. Most importantly, it will help Nigeria retain the over $1.1 billion lost annually to outbound medical tourism."

AMCE’s Broader Impact on Healthcare and the Economy

Brian Deaver, Chief Executive Officer of AMCE, highlighted the broader implications of the project: "The Africa Medical Centre of Excellence is not just a hospital—it is a bold step toward reshaping the future of specialised healthcare in Africa. By integrating cutting-edge medical technologies, pioneering research, and world-class training, AMCE is creating a sustainable healthcare ecosystem that will set new standards for medical excellence across the continent."

Deaver underscored AMCE’s role in addressing Africa’s healthcare challenges, stating, "From early diagnostics to advanced treatment and long-term disease management, AMCE will provide a seamless continuum of care that improves patient outcomes, strengthens medical expertise, and retains talent that might otherwise seek opportunities abroad."

Government Support and National Development

Nigerian government officials echoed the transformative potential of AMCE. Senator Barau Jibrin remarked, "The Africa Medical Centre of Excellence represents a transformative leap for healthcare in Nigeria and across the continent. Witnessing the rapid progress of this project reaffirms our commitment to fostering world-class medical infrastructure that will provide accessible and high-quality care for all."

Senator George Akume added, "Healthcare is the backbone of national development, and the Africa Medical Centre of Excellence is a shining example of what strategic investment and collaboration can achieve. This project will not only position Nigeria as a hub for cutting-edge medical services but also create jobs and drive innovation in the sector."

Future Phases and Long-Term Vision

AMCE’s long-term vision extends beyond its initial launch. Future phases of the project will include the development of a second 350-bed hospital facility, a medical and nursing school, a medical and sciences foundation, dedicated medical office suites, a research centre, and residential facilities for patients and healthcare professionals. This comprehensive approach will solidify AMCE’s role as a centre of excellence in healthcare, education, and research.

By fostering world-class training, cutting-edge research, and comprehensive patient care, AMCE is not only addressing Africa’s immediate healthcare needs but also building a sustainable foundation for medical innovation, talent development, and long-term health security. As AMCE prepares to open its doors, it stands as a beacon of hope for a healthier, more self-reliant Africa, ensuring that the continent’s brightest medical minds and most complex cases can be treated at home.