280 Bariatric surgery performed in Nigeria last year-Expert

In an effort to improve access to weight-loss surgeries and enhance the treatment of obesity in Nigeria, the Bariatric and Metabolic Surgeons Society of Nigeria (BMSSN) has organized a two-day scientific conference in Kano State.

The event focuses on addressing the growing burden of obesity and its associated health complications across the country.

Held under the theme “Bariatric Surgery Outcomes: Training Successes and Managing Complications,” the event brought together gastrointestinal surgeons, endocrinologists, nurses, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals from across the country to share knowledge and experiences in the rapidly growing field of bariatric surgery.

Speaking at the event on Thursday, the President of BMSSN and a gastrointestinal laparoscopic surgeon at EuraCare Hospital in Lagos, Dr. Abuchi Okaro, described the Kano conference as a milestone.

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“This is the first time our society has come to Kano, and we have been very well received,” Dr. Okaro said. “The attendance has been massive, and the level of engagement during discussions has been impressive. It’s all part of our mission to build relationships, transfer knowledge, and strengthen bariatric care across Nigeria.”

SolaceBase reports that the conference, which follows previous editions held in Lagos and Abuja, also offered a platform for surgeons to perform surgeries, engage with the host medical community, and examine bariatric surgery outcomes in the Nigerian context.

Dr. Okaro acknowledged that while only about 280 bariatric surgeries were performed in Nigeria last year — a modest figure given the country’s population — there is growing awareness and demand.

“These surgeries are lifestyle-based and require patient choice and consent. But we are optimistic that as more people understand the benefits, and as trust in the process grows, the numbers will increase,” he said.

Speaking on the goals of the conference, he emphasised the need to evaluate surgical results against international standards while improving patient care and safety.

“Success is not just about survival after surgery. We also look at complications, long-term weight loss, improvement in mobility, resolution of hypertension and diabetes, as well as overall patient happiness,” he added.

One of the presenters, Dr. Usman Mohammed Bello, a consultant general surgeon at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital and senior lecturer at Bayero University, highlighted the growing role of technology in improving bariatric outcomes.

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“We now use telemedicine and other digital tools to monitor patients remotely and ensure follow-ups,” Dr. Bello said. “However, access to reliable electricity and high costs of these technologies remain a challenge in Nigeria.”

He added that Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital has already performed several bariatric surgeries, showing that the capability exists locally to deliver high-quality care.

Another participant, Dr. Saminu Mohammed, a consultant laparoscopic surgeon, emphasized the importance of continuous training to enhance surgical outcomes and reduce complications.

“Bariatric surgery offers hope to patients with obesity-related conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and depression,” he said. “However, equipment is expensive, and thorough patient preparation — psychologically and nutritionally — is essential.”

He noted that the society’s aim in organizing such conferences is not only to create awareness but also to mentor younger colleagues and ensure that patients across Nigeria can access safe and effective bariatric care.

As obesity and related non-communicable diseases continue to rise in Nigeria, experts at the conference reaffirmed their commitment to expanding access, improving outcomes, and building a network of competent professionals across the country.