By Ifeoma Okeke, Nigerian CEO Magazine
Healthcare in Africa is entering a new era, and one of the boldest voices leading this transformation is John Chigbu, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Cassona Global Imaging Ltd. With operations now firmly established in Nigeria, Chigbu is determined to revolutionise diagnostic healthcare across West Africa by combining sustainability, integrity, and responsibility with innovative financing solutions.
Building Trust Through Action
Cassona’s journey began in Ghana in 2022, where the company overcame initial skepticism by demonstrating its commitment to quality and transparency. In Nigeria, Chigbu adopted the same strategy, installing a 32-slice CT Scanner in Abuja before officially launching operations. “It is better for our customers to see our equipment in operation before committing to buy,” he explained. This approach has helped Cassona build credibility in a market long plagued by distrust of foreign suppliers.
Delivering Value in Ghana
Cassona’s Ghanaian operations have already installed over 100 diagnostic imaging systems, ranging from ultrasound and X-ray machines to CT scanners, with the company’s first MRI scheduled for installation in 2025. Beyond equipment, Cassona has invested in local talent, employing over 20 Ghanaians and offering bioengineering graduates opportunities as trainee engineers. The company’s proprietary diagnostic centre, set to open in Accra, will combine cutting-edge imaging technology with training facilities, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Financing Healthcare Access
Chigbu’s background as an international tax and project finance lawyer has shaped Cassona’s unique approach to healthcare investment. Recognising Nigeria’s limited credit culture, Cassona offers capital access through credit facilities, supported by partners such as Sinosure, MEHECO, Zenith Bank, Ecobank, and LECON Finance Company Ltd. “Our goal is to open the door for more people to invest in healthcare, not to monopolise the market,” Chigbu said.
Driving Intra-African Investment
Chigbu believes Africa’s development depends on harnessing the potential of its diaspora. “If we can succeed overseas where we are treated as outsiders, we should be able to achieve even greater success at home,” he noted. Cassona’s expansion strategy is focused on Sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria as a priority. The statistics are stark: Nigeria, with over 200 million people, has only 205 registered CT scanners, most of which are obsolete. By contrast, Australia and New Zealand, with a combined population of 30 million, have more than 1,700.
Beyond Aid: Trade and Investment
Chigbu argues that Africa must move beyond dependency on foreign aid. With abundant natural resources and a youthful population, he believes trade and investment will drive sustainable growth. “Aid that keeps Africans compliant and complacent ought to be rejected,” he said. “Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous and resource-rich nation, must lead the way.”
Cassona’s Five-Year Vision
Looking ahead, Chigbu envisions Cassona spearheading medical independence for Nigeria. His goal is to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of income, has access to first-class healthcare. Achieving this will require collaboration among financial institutions, healthcare providers, and Nigeria’s wealthy citizens.
“By the grace of God, I would like to see every Nigerian receive world-class healthcare,” Chigbu affirmed. “Cassona is ready to lead that transformation.”