For many men, conversations about prostate health often begin only when something feels wrong. Frequent trips to the bathroom, difficulty passing urine or interrupted sleep can gradually become part of daily life, sometimes affecting confidence, comfort and overall wellbeing.
Yet, behind these seemingly ordinary inconveniences may be a prostate condition that requires medical attention.
Benign prostatic enlargement, a non-cancerous increase in the size of the prostate gland, is a common condition among ageing men. While treatment options are available, advances in medical technology continue to create new possibilities for men seeking relief and a better quality of life.
In Lagos, a recent development is adding to that conversation.
Grandville Medical Centre in Surulere has commissioned Nigeria’s first Potent 160W Holmium Laser system for Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP), introducing another advanced treatment option for appropriately selected patients living with benign prostate enlargement.
The commissioning, held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, brought together urologists, medical professionals and healthcare stakeholders to explore developments in endourology and the potential of modern surgical techniques to improve specialist care in Nigeria.
The initiative involves Highendurology, a specialist urological service based at Grandville Medical Centre, and Think Robotics, its technology arm.
For men experiencing prostate enlargement, the effects can extend beyond physical discomfort. Poor sleep, disrupted routines and the constant need to locate a restroom can interfere with work, travel, social activities and everyday life.
HoLEP offers a minimally invasive surgical approach to treating benign prostatic enlargement. Using a holmium laser, the procedure removes obstructive prostate tissue to help relieve urinary symptoms. Its suitability depends on individual clinical assessment, and patients should discuss the potential benefits and risks with a qualified urologist.
The introduction of the Potent 160W system reflects the growing role of advanced equipment in expanding the range of specialist procedures available within Nigeria.
For patients, developments such as this also bring attention to an important question: how can access to contemporary medical treatments be improved without requiring Nigerians to travel abroad for specialised care?
Speaking at the commissioning, Dr. Taiwo Opeyemi Alabi, Head of the Urology Division at Grandville Medical Centre and Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Committee on Medical Innovations and Entrepreneurship, described the technology as the first of its kind in Nigeria and highlighted its significance for the advancement of prostate care.
The event also attracted medical professionals and healthcare stakeholders who highlighted the importance of building local capacity for specialised treatment.
Professor Akin Osibogun noted that initiatives such as this could contribute to reducing medical tourism by making advanced procedures available within the country. With more specialist services available locally, patients may have greater opportunities to access appropriate care closer to home.
Dr. Ayobami Aranmolate, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Grandville Medical Group, described the introduction of the system as a potential game changer for specialist healthcare, pointing to its promise of expanding the treatment options available to patients.
Similarly, Dr. Olayinka Atilola, National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association, called for greater support from government and well-meaning individuals for medical innovations that strengthen the country’s healthcare capacity.
Prostate health is an important part of men’s overall wellbeing, yet symptoms are sometimes dismissed as an inevitable consequence of getting older. Persistent urinary difficulties, frequent nighttime urination or difficulty emptying the bladder deserve medical assessment rather than silent acceptance.
Equally important is the need to distinguish benign prostate enlargement from other conditions that can affect the prostate. Symptoms can overlap, making professional evaluation essential.
Although access to advanced equipment is an important step, better outcomes also depend on the availability of trained specialists, appropriate facilities, patient education and follow-up care. Technology is most valuable when it forms part of a complete, patient-centred approach to treatment.
For Grandville Medical Centre, Highendurology and Think Robotics, the commissioning represents an investment in the future of specialist urological care and a contribution to the wider conversation about making advanced treatment more accessible in Nigeria.
Ultimately, the story goes beyond a new piece of medical equipment. It is about helping men take prostate symptoms seriously, encouraging open conversations about health and creating more opportunities for patients to receive specialised care at home.
Because when it comes to wellbeing, the ability to sleep comfortably, move through the day without constant disruption and seek appropriate treatment when needed can make a meaningful difference to everyday life.
