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A Nigerian consultant robotic, urological and laparoscopic surgeon, Professor Kingsley Ekwueme known for bringing advanced robotic surgery to West Africa—has revealed plans to partner with Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri, to establish a world‑class Robotic Surgery Academy at the university.

Prof. Ekwueme announced this on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, when he, accompanied by his robotic surgical first assistant Joanne Roberts, his hospital administrator and operations lead Blessing Onyekachi, and Sir Donald Ekenta, paid a courtesy visit to the Vice‑Chancellor of Imo State University, Professor Uchefula Ugonna Chukwumaeze, SAN, FCArb, and other members of the university’s management committee in the Vice‑Chancellor’s conference room.

In his address, Prof. Ekwueme said, “I am particularly excited about the prospect of partnering with Imo State University to establish the first Robotic Surgery Academy in Africa. I look forward to an exciting relationship that will produce the first‑of‑its‑kind curriculum for academic training in conjunction with practical robotic surgery technical training.”

“I believe such an academy, which does not currently exist in Africa, would attract international visitors to Imo State University. IMSU should gain global academic attention through this project. I am very excited about it. We are here to put our heads together with the aim of establishing a world‑class Robotic Surgery Academy that will especially benefit IMSU and serve as a beacon for transformative change across Africa in advanced robotic systems and artificial intelligence.”

He noted that he developed robotic surgery and performed the first procedure for West and Central Africa in Lagos last year (2025). He said he is extremely excited that construction of the Imo State Robotic Center has been completed and that the center is preparing to perform the first series of such operations in the South‑East, with a formal launch to follow.

Prof. Ekwueme, a specialist in urology and uro‑oncology with a focus on prostate, kidney and bladder cancers, also performs laparoscopic and robotic “keyhole” procedures. He trained at the University of Ibadan Medical School, completed urological and surgical training on the Merseyside training scheme in the UK, earned a doctoral thesis on prostate cancer from the University of Liverpool in 2014, completed a Robotic Surgery Fellowship in Paris, and has collaborated with teams in France and Germany.

He was appointed Consultant Urological and Robotic Surgeon at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Glan Clwyd Hospital in Wales in 2015. He is an Honorary Senior Lecturer at Bangor University and an Honorary Lecturer at Cardiff and Swansea medical schools.

Reacting to the announcement, the Vice‑Chancellor of Imo State University, Prof. Uchefula Ugonna Chukwumaeze, SAN, FCArb, expressed great delight that IMSU had been selected to host the world‑class Robotic Surgery Academy, which he described as the first of its kind.

He thanked Professor Ekwueme and his team for their vision, describing Prof. Ekwueme as “a global citizen, humble and unassuming,” and assured them that Imo State University is ready and willing to partner with them. He said the university will provide all necessary support and cooperation to ensure the project becomes a reality. He also thanked Sir Donald Ekenta for recommending IMSU to the robotic surgeon.

Adding his voice, the Provost of IMSU College of Health, Orlu, Professor Jude Egwurgwu, said that just three weeks ago IMSU was approved as a Simulation Center for West Africa in Simulation Medicine, and that the center is situated at the Orlu campus. He added that people will come to IMSU to study Simulation Medicine from across West Africa. He described the partnership with the Robotic Center and the approval for IMSU to become a simulation center as a milestone for the university.

Members of the university management committee and staff of the College of Medicine present at the courtesy call included: the Deputy Vice‑Chancellor (Academic), Professor Agnes Osita‑Njoku; the Deputy Vice‑Chancellor (Administration), Professor Onuh Martin Onuh; the Registrar, Mr. Cajetan N. Curtis Azubogu; the Bursar, Mr. Fidelis Njoku; the University Librarian, Professor Blessing Solomon‑Uwakwe; the Director of Works and Services, Engineer Dr. V. C. Igiri; the Director of Physical Planning, Dr. Ken Oguh; the Dean of Basic Clinical Medicine (represented by Dr. Chinedu Opara); the Dean of Basic Medicine, Professor Promise Nwankpa; the University’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Onyekachi Augustus Nwaozor; the Personal Assistant to the Vice‑Chancellor, Dr. Chinenyeze Amaechi, Esq.; the Secretary, IMSU College of Medicine, Mr. Ambrose Okereafor; and the Secretary to the Vice‑Chancellor, Dr. Chioma Nwachukwu.

Dr. Onyekachi Augustus Nwaozor is a Lecturer in the Department of Development Communication Studies, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, as well as the Acting Public Relations Officer, all in Imo State University, Owerri, Nigeria. He earned a Doctorate Degree (Ph.D) in Mass Communication, Master of Science (M.Sc) in Mass Communication, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Mass Communication and another Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Economics, all from Imo State University Owerri, Nigeria. He also earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE), from National Teachers Institute, Kaduna, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Dr. Onyekachi Augustus Nwaozor is a Google Scholar, Media Consultant, a Public Speaker and a Prolific writer. He has authored and co-authored numerous Text Books, Book Chapters, Journal Articles and Conference Proceedings, among others. He is a member of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) as well as a member of Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN)

In a country where thousands of young people enter the labour market every year, the search for decent employment has become a pressing concern. Faced with intense competition for available jobs, many Nigerian youths are increasingly turning to entrepreneurship, transforming their talents, skills and ideas into businesses that can provide them with income and a sense of independence.

For years, securing a formal job has been regarded as one of the major signs of financial stability among young Nigerians. However, the reality facing many graduates and school leavers is different. After years of education, some young people spend months or even years searching for employment without success. Others accept jobs that do not match their qualifications or provide enough income to meet their basic needs.

This difficult situation has encouraged a growing number of youths to create their own opportunities. Rather than waiting for vacancies to appear, they are establishing small businesses in areas where they have knowledge, experience or interest.

Across different parts of Nigeria, young entrepreneurs are making their presence felt in fashion, hair and beauty services, catering, agriculture, photography, transportation, technology, entertainment, digital marketing and online commerce. Some businesses begin with only a small amount of money but gradually develop as customers increase and the owners gain experience.

For many of these young people, entrepreneurship is not simply about making money. It is also about taking control of their future.

A young entrepreneur who recently started a fashion business explained that unemployment influenced her decision to become self-employed.

«“I realised that I could not continue waiting for someone to give me a job when I had a skill that could generate income. I decided to start small and build from there,” she said.»

The growing use of social media has also changed the way young entrepreneurs conduct business. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and WhatsApp have become important tools for advertising products and services. A business owner can now showcase products, communicate with customers and receive orders without necessarily having a large physical shop.

For youths with limited resources, this development has created a valuable opportunity. A young person with a talent for photography, graphic design, hair styling or fashion can promote the service online and attract customers beyond their immediate neighbourhood.

However, the entrepreneurial journey is far from easy. One of the biggest difficulties faced by young business owners is access to adequate capital. Many aspiring entrepreneurs have promising ideas but lack the money required to purchase equipment, rent a space, buy stock or promote their businesses.

The rising cost of goods and services has added another layer of difficulty. Small business owners often have to deal with increased transportation costs, expensive materials, electricity challenges and other operating expenses. For businesses with small profit margins, these costs can make expansion extremely difficult.

A business owner in the beauty industry said that maintaining a small business requires constant financial discipline.

«“Sometimes the money you make is not enough to cover everything. You have to pay for materials, transportation and other expenses before you can think about profit,” she said.»

Beyond financial challenges, some young entrepreneurs lack access to proper business training. Having a skill is important, but running a successful business requires more than technical ability. Entrepreneurs must understand how to keep financial records, determine prices, communicate with customers, market their products and plan for future growth.

This is where entrepreneurship education and mentorship become important. Young people who receive guidance from experienced business owners may be better prepared to avoid common

‎The Imo State University Football Club (IMSU FC) has emerged as the overall best Football team in the just concluded football tournament organized by OneDosh company, tagged, "OneDosh Unity Cup, Imo State.

‎The football tournament which featured 8 tertiary institutions in Imo State, namely: Imo State University, Owerri, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, Kingsley Ozuomba Mbadiwe University, Ogboko, University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Umuagwo, Benjamin Uwajumogu State College of Education, Ihitte Uboma, Federal College of Land Resources Technology, Oforola, Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, and Federal University of Technology, Owerri, was generally described by participants as one of the best tournaments so far in Imo State.

‎Speaking during the Golden Trophy presentation visit to the Management of Imo State University on Monday, July 27, 2026, at the Vice-Chancello's office, the Imo State University's Director of Sports, Prof. Hyginus Ogbuehi, in company of the University's Deputy Director of Sports, Dr. Linda Ijeoma Uwandu, the IMSU SUG President, Comrade Brendan Ijezie, SUG Director of Sports, Comrade Ebosie Anthony, the Head Coach, Mr. Njoku Uche Godwin, as well as the the entire IMSU football club, Stated that, the team earlier beat K.O. Mbadiwe University with 3 goals to nil in their first game, defeated Federal Poly. Nekede with 3 goals to 1, in their second game to reach the finals which was between IMSU and Alvan. "At the end of the day, the match ended with 3 goals to 2 in favour of IMSU", he stated.

‎Speaking further, the Director of Sports highlighted that, "this is not first cup or medal since the current Vice-Chancellor, Professor U. U. Chukwumaeze, SAN, came on board. We have been winning. Infact, one documentary said, why is it that every new tournament in Imo State, IMSU must win the cup?". He therefore, thanked Management of Imo State University for providing enabling environment for football and other sports to thrive in the University, "irrespective of numerous challenges".

‎In his reaction, the Vice-Chancellor of Imo State University, Prof. Uchefula Ugonna Chukwumaeze, SAN, FCArb, first apologized to the team for not being physically present at the competition due to some official engagements, which centered on the last minute preparations for the forthcoming Professional Accreditation of some Engineering Programmes by the COREN, as well as other Departments, which comes up in few days time.

‎Prof. Chukwumaeze however expressed delight over the football team's victory. He said, "when an individual or an institution like ours continues to move from one success to another, if it doesn't give you Joy, what else will give you Joy?". He added, "this is an umpteenth time you people are giving us joy. Each one you go for, you come back with victory. Infact, the level we are now is a level we can never lose again".

‎He thanked the Visitor to the University, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, (ONWA), OON, the Executive Governor of Imo State for all his supports to the University. He also thanked both the team and their Management for their dedication and for making the University proud. "I pray that you will all continue to make is proud beyond this level. Please, you people should continue to work hard. Infact, I want you to be the national best because you have repeatedly conquered all other teams here in Imo State", the Vice-chancellor concluded.

‎In his own speech, the IMSU FC's Captain, Mr. Okechukwu Osinachi Bright (aka Messi), said that the tournament was both interesting and tough but because of IMSU FC's team spirit, they came out victorious, adding that the tournament was well organized.

‎While adding his voice, the IMSU SUG Director of Sports, Comrade Anthony Kyrian Ebosie (aka Oleki), gave thanks to God for the successful tournament. He revealed that, even before the tournament began that he was confident enough that IMSU will come out victorious, because according to him, "we have been winning since".

‎Comrade Anthony however, thanked the coaching crew, the team management, saying that everyone played his/her role very well which led to the positive outcome. He also extended his appreciation to the University Management for their support which resulted in the positive outcome.

‎"We are also grateful to Imo State University students (Imo Stars) who came to the stadium in their large number to cheer us up. Infact, their presence gave us enough strength. We are grateful".

‎In his own speech, the Head Coach of IMSU FC, Mr. Njoku Uchechkwu Godwin (aka Coach Kizy) stated, "I fell in love with the Vice-Chancellor of IMSU the very first time I saw him due to his approaches".

‎Speaking further he said, "I bless God for this opportunity and I also want to let the University know that this is just the beginning of more victories that is coming". He added that the competition and the winning is not a new thing to them. "Winning is something that we are used to and something that we are known for. If you talk about the 2025 super 4 Universities where FUTO, Fed. Poly Nekede and FECOLART and IMSU competed to know the best team, IMSU came out as the best".

‎"Also, the CITY BOYS Tournament hosted in Owerri for the female team, IMSU also came out as the winner.". The coach maintained. "God is the reason why we are on limelight because we always put Him first. We are grateful for the fans. Imo State University students really came out in their numbers to support their team. One thing we are promising Management of IMSU is that they will not rest in receiving trophies. We will keep bringing back trophies in every tournament", the coach stated.

‎He however commended the organizers of the tournament, saying, "this is one of the best tournaments I have seen in Imo State so far since I became a coach. Fom the turnout, to the organization, and the tournament itself, everything was a top-notch". 

‎The players included: Okechukwu Osinachi Bright (Captain), Mbaoma Onyekachi Daniel, Anyanwu Damian Uchechkwu, Okechukwu Favour Izuchukwu, Dimonyeka Munachi Sixtus (Goal keeper), Anumnu Ugonna Alexander, Ofurum Jeremiah Azuoma, Ukwu Kizito Nzubechi, Mazi Chiziterem Petus, Elu Ekene Raphael, Obioha Chukwuemeka James, Albert Christian IK, Emmanuel Winner Chizuru, Ejiogu Elvis Chuka, Chukwuma Onyinyechi E. (IMSU female Captain), Eke Chimuamya (IMSU female Assistant Captain) and Comrade Stanley Ogoke (Assistant Coach).

‎Some members of the University's Management Committee present at the presentation visit included: Prof. Onuh Martin Onuh (DVC Admin.), Mr. Cajetan N. Curtis Azubuogu (Ag. Registrar), Mr. Fidelis Njoku (Bursar), and Dr. Onyekachi Augustus Nwaozor (IMSU Ag. Public Relations Officer).

One early morning, the sun was shining gently over a quiet neighborhood as 35-year-old Ada stepped out of her small home with a smile. She was a mother of two  full of hope and determination. The compound was neat and tidy,flowers lined the walkway, and birds were singing in the fresh air. Her children laughed as they got ready for school, carrying water bottles and healthy homemade meals. Every morning, Ada made small but important choices washing hands before meals, serving balanced food, encouraging exercise, drinking clean water, sleeping early, and keeping the surroundings free from dirt and stagnant water. To her, these simple habits were the first step to staying healthy.

Health experts often say prevention is better than cure, and Ada's family showed exactly why. By going for regular medical check-ups, making sure the children got their immunizations, keeping good hygiene, and avoiding unhealthy foods, they reduced their chances of getting preventable diseases like malaria, typhoid, cholera, and high blood pressures.

Malaria is one of the most common sickness around us,it is cause by a parasite called plasmodium which is transmitted to human through the bite of an infected mosquito and insect.

The effect of malaria is high fever, headache,nausea and vomiting.but it can be prevented by sleeping under insecticide treated mosquito nets, wearing long sleeved clothing, especially at nigh and keeping the environment neat .

 These everyday choices helped keep the family healthy and out of hospital beds.

Still, many families ignore these simple habits. Poor hygiene, unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, self-medication, and waiting too long before seeing a doctor often lead to serious illnesses. Because of this, hospitals get crowded, families spend a lot of money on treatment, children miss school, adults lose income, and in some cases, diseases that could have been prevented even take lives.

Even though people have a responsibility to take care of their health, the government also has an important role to play. Poor waste management, limited access to clean water, weak primary healthcare services, poor sanitation, and not enough health education make it hard for many families to go for medical check up and stay healthy. In some communities, people have no choice but to drink unsafe water or travel far before getting medical help.which is not suppose to be so.if the government have provided good healthcare center,clean water and  proper sanitation for the communities.

It would have reduced the number of families ending up in hospital, the government needs to invest in quality healthcare, provide clean water and proper sanitation, improve environmental sanitation, strengthen primary healthcare centres, organize regular public health awareness campaigns, and make preventive healthcare affordable and easy to access. Communities should also join in clean-up exercises and encourage healthy living.

At the end of the day, keeping families out of hospital walls does not come down to one big decision, but to many small daily choices. When individuals, communities, and the government all work together, healthier families become possible, hospitals become less crowded, and society becomes stronger. Every healthy choice made today is an investment in a healthier tomorrow.