Afreximbank: AMCE will create 3,000 jobs, retain $1.1bn lost to medical tourism

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) says the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) will create jobs in Nigeria and reduce medical tourism.

The AMCE is a tertiary medical institution spearheaded by Afreximbank in partnership with King’s College Hospital, London.

Benedict Oramah, president of the board of directors of Afreximbank, spoke at a high-level stakeholder and media tour to showcase major construction milestones of the AMCE ahead of its June 2025 launch in Abuja.

Attendees received updates on key project milestones and explored the hospital’s state-of-the-art medical infrastructure and technology.

Commenting on the progress, Oramah said AMCE represents a defining moment in Africa’s pursuit of self-sufficiency in healthcare.

He said for too long, Africa has borne the heavy burden of non-communicable diseases, capital flight from medical tourism, and the exodus of skilled professionals seeking opportunities abroad.

He said the AMCE is set to change that narrative.

“By delivering world-class, lifesaving care to over 350,000 patients within its first five years, this facility will ensure that quality healthcare is no longer a privilege reserved for those who can afford to travel overseas,” he said.

“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, redirecting those resources towards strengthening our own systems.

“This initiative is more than an investment in infrastructure — it is an investment in Africa’s future.

“Through strategic partnerships with governments, international stakeholders, and the private sector, we are demonstrating that Africa has both the ambition and the capability to provide world-class healthcare for its people.”

Also speaking at the event, Brian Deaver, chief executive officer of AMCE, said the centre is not just a hospital but 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,” he said.

“This facility is more than a response to Africa’s healthcare challenges — it is a proactive investment in the well-being of millions.”

He added that 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.