5G clinic brings healthcare to Nigerian internally displaced persons camp
Published: 5 November 2025
A groundbreaking connectivity trial has demonstrated the potential of 5G communications technologies to enable remote healthcare in Nigeria.
A groundbreaking connectivity trial has demonstrated the potential of 5G communications technologies to enable remote healthcare in Nigeria.
The University of Glasgow, in partnership with MCom, the Slum and Rural Health Initiative (SRHIN), and Carelinks Healthcare Solutions, successfully conducted a 5G Remote Clinic field trial at the New Kuchigoro Internally Displaced Persons Camp, Abuja, Nigeria on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 October 2025.
The two-day trial demonstrated how 5G standalone connectivity combined with satellite internet access can deliver high-quality, live telemedicine services in humanitarian and remote environments.
The project, funded by the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council’s Impact Acceleration Account, connected 21 volunteer doctors who joined remotely from within and outside Nigeria to provide live video consultations for 81 internally displaced people over a secure 5G network.
This marks the first field demonstration in Nigeria of a hybrid 5G–satellite healthcare network, validating the potential of next-generation communications infrastructure to extend healthcare access to underserved populations.
The 5G Remote Clinic project showcased how flexible, standalone 5G networks can be rapidly deployed to support critical social services such as healthcare, education, and emergency response. By removing the need for doctors to physically travel to camps, the approach enables more efficient use of medical expertise while significantly improving patient reach and quality of care.
The 5G Remote Clinic builds on previous research by the University of Glasgow under the European Space Agency-funded 5G REMOTE project, which demonstrated remote dental examinations using 5G and satellite links in Scotland. The Nigeria-based trial extends this innovation to a humanitarian setting, aligning with national and global efforts to improve healthcare access through digital connectivity.
Dr Yusuf Sambo, Senior Lecturer at the University of Glasgow's James Watt School of Engineering is the project's principal investigator. He said: “This project shows how advanced communication technologies can make a real difference in people’s lives. By combining 5G and satellite connectivity, we have been able to bring qualified doctors directly to displaced communities, wherever they are. Beyond healthcare, the model demonstrates how next-generation networks can enable vital services in areas that have traditionally been left behind. We are deeply grateful to our partners, MCom, SRHIN, Carelinks, and the Nigerian Communications Commission, for their support and collaboration in making this possible.”
Kingsley Uwazie, Chief Technology Officer at Mcom 5G said: “This project has shown that private, standalone 5G networks can provide a secure and reliable alternative to support healthcare delivery where traditional systems fall short. We have demonstrated that connectivity can become care, and that 5G can truly serve as a lifeline.
“I commend the foresight and dedication of the Chairman and Board of Mafab Communications for embracing 5G as a catalyst for national transformation. I also express my gratitude to the University of Glasgow, SRHIN, Care Links, and the NCC for their valuable collaboration in making this project possible, and for using innovation and technology to bring essential services closer to those who need them most.”
Dr. Hughes Dimka, Founder and Lead-Carelinks Telemedicine: “The trial with Carelinks Telemedicine App demonstrated the critical role of telemedicine in bridging the healthcare gap for displaced communities. Leveraging advanced network technology—especially the combination of 5G and satellite connectivity—allowed us to deliver high-quality, immediate consultations directly to those who need it most.
“This isn't just about remote appointments; it's about providing equitable access to care regardless of location or infrastructure challenges. Carelinks Telemedicine is proving to be a powerful, scalable model for ensuring essential health services reach every corner of the globe.”
First published: 5 November 2025