Nigerian artificial intelligence researcher Mary-Brenda Akoda has made a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize medical imaging in the country. Her innovation, known as GenScan AI, has the potential to reduce Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan times by as much as 90% without requiring hospitals to replace their existing MRI machines. This development could significantly improve the use of scarce MRI machines, particularly in areas where advanced diagnostic equipment is limited.
Akoda's breakthrough emerged as the winning entry in the 2026 Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation, sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited. The competition attracted an impressive 237 entries, showcasing the country's rich talent pool in science and innovation. GenScan AI uses an algorithm known as C-MORE to reconstruct MRI images, allowing for significantly shorter scanning periods while retaining the use of existing equipment.
According to Akoda, the technology could have a substantial impact on healthcare delivery in Nigeria. A conventional 20-minute MRI scan could be completed in roughly two minutes, while an examination lasting one hour could take about six minutes. This reduction in scan time could enable hospitals to attend to more patients, shorten waiting times, and improve the overall efficiency of medical services.
The innovation has undergone technical and clinical assessment, and further testing and validation will be required before it can be routinely used on patients. However, the Federal Government has indicated plans to support clinical pilots of the technology in Nigerian teaching hospitals and Federal Medical Centres. This move demonstrates the government's commitment to embracing innovative solutions that can enhance healthcare delivery in the country.
Akoda's achievement is set to be recognized at the Grand Award Night scheduled for October 9, 2026, where she is expected to receive the $100,000 Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation. This prestigious award acknowledges her outstanding contribution to science and innovation, and it is expected to inspire other young researchers to pursue careers in STEM fields.
The development of GenScan AI is particularly significant for Nigeria, where access to advanced diagnostic equipment is often limited. By leveraging AI technology, Akoda's innovation could help bridge the gap in healthcare delivery, enabling more patients to access life-saving diagnostic services. The technology could also have far-reaching implications for medical research, enabling researchers to collect and analyze data more efficiently.
As Akoda's innovation moves forward, it is expected to have a lasting impact on the country's healthcare sector. With the government's support, GenScan AI could be integrated into hospitals and medical centres across Nigeria, transforming the way medical imaging is conducted. Key points include:
Key points
- GenScan AI can cut MRI scan times by up to 90%, allowing one-hour exams to take just six minutes.
- The technology uses an algorithm known as C-MORE to reconstruct MRI images.
- The Federal Government plans to support clinical pilots of GenScan AI in Nigerian teaching hospitals and Federal Medical Centres.
