The Christie International hosts African Medical Centre of Excellence visit

News story posted 25 October 2024

The Christie International hosted a visit from The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE), Abuja, Nigeria. Brian Deaver (Chief Executive) and Dr Aisha Umar (Chief Medical Officer) from the AMCE were joined by Ali Yousuf from King’s Commercial Services, who deliver King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s international programme during the visit on 24 October 2024.

The visitors updated on progress in Nigeria and plans for opening the AMCE next year and, during a tour that followed, had the opportunity to meet with staff at The Christie to discuss the latest advancements in oncology care and collaborative opportunities.

A photo of Ali Yousuf, Dr Lip Lee, Brian Deaver, Dr Aisha Umar and Jonathan Martin standing in front of the sculpture outside The Christie's main entrance.
Left to right: Ali Yousuf, Dr Lip Lee, Brian Deaver, Dr Aisha Umar and Jonathan Martin

Brian Deaver remarked: “This visit underscores the AMCE's commitment to building a world-class medical centre focused on patient-centred, high-quality care for non-communicable diseases in West Africa. The Christie’s remarkable innovations in cancer treatment and their laser focus on patient experience and holistic care directly align with AMCE’s mission to bridge the gap in healthcare across West Africa. 

“We are both grateful to and excited about our clinical partnership with The Christie, a partnership that will significantly benefit our patients and dramatically enhance medical care options in the region for many years to come.”

Dr Lip Lee, Clinical Director for Clinical Oncology, leads The Christie's advice and support to the development of the AMCE, which commenced in 2021 and at present is focused on supporting recruitment and education of oncology staff.

Once operational, The Christie will continue to support the AMCE oncology service and the quality assurance programme with King’s College Hospital.

An artist's impression of the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) in Abuja, Nigeria.

While in Manchester, the visitors attended the Medical Association of Nigerians across Great Britain (MANSAG) 27th Scientific Conference and AGM where Professor Richard Cowan from The Christie was also presenting.

Jonathan Martin, Head of Christie International, will join colleagues from King's on their next visit to the AMCE in November 2024 to see progress first hand. You can read more about the AMCE project.

Last updated: October 2024