Nigeria’s First Outpatient Infusion & Arthritis Center Launches in Abuja, Set to Transform Chronic Disease Care

In a major boost for Nigeria’s healthcare sector, US-trained physician Dr. Helen Mbakwe has opened the country’s first Outpatient Infusion and Arthritis Management Center in Abuja. The state-of-the-art facility, named Frontline Infusion and Arthritis Medical Facility, promises to revolutionize treatment for chronic pain, autoimmune diseases, and complex infections in West Africa.

The launch ceremony attracted top government officials and health experts who praised the initiative as a game-changer for Nigeria’s medical landscape. Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment (FCTA), highlighted the center’s importance in addressing critical gaps in arthritis care.

“This facility addresses a major gap in our system,” Dr. Fasawe stated. “Dr. Mbakwe deserves commendation for her foresight and commitment to bridging it.”

Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary for Women Affairs (FCTA), emphasized the center’s significance for women’s health, noting that autoimmune conditions affect women disproportionately.

“This center is a landmark for women’s health,” she said. “It brings targeted relief and care closer to those who need it most.”

The facility introduces Nigeria’s first Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) program, an innovative approach to treating antibiotic-resistant infections without hospital admission. Using precision IV systems, the OPAT service allows patients to receive advanced care while maintaining their daily routines.

Dr. Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, hailed Dr. Mbakwe’s return to Nigeria as a reversal of the brain drain trend.

“Dr. Helen has given us an anti-Japa story—coming back home, investing in our healthcare system, and challenging other professionals to do the same,” he remarked.

Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Interior, also applauded the initiative, describing it as a rare and impactful investment in Nigeria’s health sector.

“It’s rare to see medical professionals return home to build something this impactful,” she said. “Dr. Helen’s vision and courage deserve national recognition.”

Other dignitaries at the event included Chief (Mrs.) Amina Titi Atiku-Abubakar, wife of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Dr. Mohammed Kamal, former Senior Special Assistant on Health to the President, who delivered the keynote address.

In her address, Dr. Mbakwe expressed her passion for transforming patients’ lives through innovative care.

“This is not just treatment—it’s a lifeline,” she said. “The Frontline Center combines compassion with innovation to deliver lasting relief.”

The center is expected to serve as a regional hub for advanced arthritis and infusion care, setting new standards for outpatient treatment in Nigeria and beyond. With its cutting-edge services and patient-centered approach, the facility marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s healthcare evolution.