UCH Ibadan Partners with University of Michigan to Advance Global Pediatric Surgery

 In a significant move to enhance specialized medical care, the Management of University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, received a high-level delegation from the American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA) and Michigan Medicine on April 17, 2026.

The visit, hosted at the hospital’s boardroom, was led by Professor Robin Petroze, Clinical Associate Professor and Vice Chair of Global Surgery at C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan. Introducing the guest, Professor Olakayode Ogundoyin, Head of UCH’s Pediatric Surgery Division, highlighted the importance of fostering international academic ties.

During the session, Professor Petroze outlined a mission focused on two primary pillars: intensive training for surgeons in critical pediatric procedures and the advancement of global scholarship in pediatric surgical oncology.

"Our goal in Africa is to integrate and train pediatric surgeons to meet global standards while fostering a culture of exchange and collaboration that truly impacts clinical knowledge," Professor Petroze stated.

A key highlight of the partnership, noted by Dr. Abeeb Ogundipe, involves a specific collaboration between the University of Michigan and UCH to evaluate and improve the management of lower urinary tract disorders in children across the continent.

Welcoming the delegation, the Chief Medical Director of UCH, Professor Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo, expressed deep appreciation for the University of Michigan’s commitment to residency training. He reaffirmed the hospital’s dedication to the partnership, pledging full management support for initiatives that elevate the health and well-being of the Nigerian public.

This collaboration marks a pivotal step in bridging the gap in specialized pediatric care and establishing UCH as a central hub for global surgical research in West Africa.