Nigeria has achieved a major milestone in healthcare with the launch of its first comprehensive dermatology centre at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital,LUTH.
The state-of-the-art facility, inaugurated on Thursday in Lagos, marks a new chapter in the country’s medical advancement and commitment to improving skin healthcare delivery.
The new centre was formally commissioned by Professor Yetunde Olumide, the first female Emeritus Professor of Medicine at the University of Lagos, whose pioneering work laid the foundation for dermatology practice in Nigeria. The 83-year-old academic described the inauguration as a dream fulfilled, expressing joy at witnessing the transformation of a once-debilitated unit into a world-class centre.
“I’m overwhelmed with joy to be alive to witness this landmark achievement,” Professor Olumide said, reminiscing about the early struggles of providing care in the old, inadequate facility. “At the time we were using the old building, it was in such a crippled state, but we continued to give our services. Now, the ambience of this new centre will not only uplift the doctors but also help in the healing process of patients.”
A new era for Dermatology in Nigeria
The three-storey dermatology and rheumatology facility was built under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. It is fully powered by a solar-inverter system, ensuring uninterrupted electricity and creating a conducive environment for both practitioners and patients.
Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, Chief Medical Director of LUTH, described the centre as a strategic response to Nigeria’s medical brain drain. He explained that one of the key reasons many health professionals migrate is the lack of modern equipment and facilities.
“With this new facility, medical personnel will have the confidence and comfort to work here,” Prof. Adeyemo said. “It’s not just about remuneration — it’s about creating a work environment that meets global standards.”
He added that the hospital may explore public-private partnerships to ensure long-term maintenance and sustainability of the centre.
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Bridging a major healthcare gap
The centre’s establishment fills a long-standing gap in Nigeria’s healthcare system. Prof. Adeyemo noted that the number of Nigerians seeking dermatological treatment abroad is rising due to inadequate local facilities. “Many Nigerians travel overseas for even basic procedures. This centre will change that narrative by offering world-class treatment here at home,” he said.
Guest speaker Professor Adegbola Ogunbiyi from the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, highlighted the social and psychological burden of skin diseases. “Skin diseases can be very stigmatising and can impact productivity and quality of life. Centres like this are vital in restoring dignity and confidence to affected individuals,” she said.
Beyond treatment: A research, training hub
Beyond providing patient care, the new facility will serve as a hub for research, innovation, and professional training in dermatology. Professor Olumide described it as “a centre of excellence for dermatology care” that will contribute significantly to medical education and scientific advancement in Nigeria and beyond.
“The centre will not only provide comprehensive dermatology services but will also train future specialists and support groundbreaking research in skin and rheumatological diseases,” she stated.
Call for health policy reform
Professor Ogunbiyi urged policymakers to prioritise dermatology within national health insurance coverage. She stressed that out-of-pocket payments remain a major barrier to treatment. “People shouldn’t have to pay out-of-pocket for conditions that are treatable and manageable. Including skin care in health insurance will make a huge difference,” she noted.
A model for the future
The launch of the LUTH Dermatology Centre is being hailed as a model for healthcare reform and medical infrastructure development in Nigeria. For Professor Olumide, the moment signifies not just personal fulfilment but hope for the next generation of medical professionals.
“This facility will inspire those we trained to stay and serve rather than seek opportunities abroad,” she said. “It shows that when government invests in healthcare, we can achieve global standards right here at home.”
The new dermatology centre stands as a testament to Nigeria’s resolve to modernize its health sector and retain its medical talent through innovation, infrastructure, and commitment to patient-centered care.
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