Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) has presented GenScan AI, a groundbreaking innovation that won this year’s Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation (NPSI), to key stakeholders in Abuja. The innovation, developed by Mary-Brenda Akoda, applies Artificial Intelligence to accelerate MRI procedures while maintaining or improving the quality of diagnostic images. This technology has the potential to transform medical diagnostic services by reducing MRI scan times and improving access to critical healthcare services.
The presentation provided a platform for healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to examine the prospects of deploying artificial intelligence to address longstanding challenges associated with diagnostic imaging. The Advisory Board of the Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation noted that GenScan AI’s C-MORE algorithm uses a one-step framework to reconstruct MRI images, with the potential to reduce scan acquisition times by up to 90 per cent without requiring new MRI hardware.
The significance of the technology lies not only in its potential speed but also in its ability to improve the utilisation of MRI infrastructure without requiring hospitals to invest in additional scanning equipment. By reducing the time patients spend undergoing MRI examinations, GenScan AI could enable healthcare facilities to conduct more scans within the same operational period, shorten appointment waiting times, and improve the efficiency of diagnostic services.
NLNG’s General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Sophia Horsfall, underscored the critical role of accurate and timely diagnosis in effective medical treatment. She explained that diagnostic imaging provides essential clinical evidence that enables healthcare professionals to identify medical conditions, assess their severity, and determine appropriate treatment options. Horsfall emphasised that NLNG’s commitment to scientific excellence extends beyond rewarding outstanding research to encouraging the development of innovations capable of addressing practical challenges and improving lives.
Prof Barth Nnaji, representing the Prize’s Advisory Board, noted that GenScan AI distinguished itself through the strength of its scientific approach and its potential to address a pressing healthcare challenge. He identified sustained engagement with clinicians, medical institutions, and other relevant stakeholders as an essential next step in determining how the innovation could be safely and effectively integrated into clinical practice.
Mary-Brenda Akoda emerged as the winner of this year’s Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation following a highly competitive selection that attracted a record 237 entries. Her entry was selected following an independent evaluation by the Panel of Judges, chaired by Dr Omobola Johnson, and subsequent endorsement by the Prize’s Advisory Board. Akoda is scheduled to receive the US$100,000 award at the Grand Award Night.
The presentation of GenScan AI reflects NLNG’s broader commitment to encouraging research, technological innovation, and the practical application of scientific knowledge to national development. The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation, sponsored by NLNG, seeks to recognise excellence in scientific research while promoting innovative solutions to challenges affecting society. For GenScan AI, the next challenge will be translating its demonstrated research potential into a clinically validated solution that can be deployed safely and effectively.
Key points
- GenScan AI has the potential to reduce MRI scan acquisition times by up to 90 per cent.
- The innovation could enable healthcare facilities to conduct more scans within the same operational period.
- NLNG is committed to encouraging research, technological innovation, and the practical application of scientific knowledge to national development.
