A Nigerian innovation that could make MRI scans far faster, and so widen access to diagnosis, was presented to stakeholders in Abuja on Monday by Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG).
The innovation, GenScan AI, is the winning work of The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation (NPSI) 2026. NLNG’s Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku, disclosed that it was presented at the event.
Developed by Mary-Brenda Akoda, GenScan AI uses artificial intelligence to shorten MRI scan times while maintaining or improving image quality.
The presentation brought together stakeholders to consider how it could be applied in Nigeria’s health sector and what steps are needed to move the research into clinical use.
The Advisory Board of NPSI, which declared the winner, said the C-MORE algorithm behind the work reconstructs MRI images in a single step.
According to the Board, it has the potential to reduce scan acquisition times by up to 90 per cent without requiring new MRI hardware.
Shorter scan times could allow healthcare providers to attend to more patients, cut waiting times and make better use of existing MRI equipment. These potential benefits informed the recognition of its relevance to healthcare delivery.
In her welcome remarks, NLNG’s General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Sophia Horsfall, stressed the importance of accurate diagnosis to effective treatment.
She noted that diagnostic imaging provides evidence that helps medical teams identify conditions and make informed decisions about patient care.
“Our interest goes beyond recognising an outstanding idea. We want to see scientific research make a practical difference in people’s lives. GenScan AI offers the prospect of faster medical imaging and better use of existing equipment. This presentation creates an opportunity to discuss what is needed to move that promise towards practical application,” she said.
Speaking on the winning entry, Professor Barth Nnaji of the Prize’s Advisory Board said the work stood out for the strength of its science and its potential to address a practical healthcare need.
He identified engagement with clinicians and other stakeholders as the next step in assessing how the technology could be used safely and effectively. The presentation, he added, offered an opportunity to examine its potential and the requirements for further development and application.
Akoda emerged as the 2026 winner from a record 237 entries submitted under the theme “Innovations in Artificial Intelligence, ICT and Digital Technologies for Development.”
Her selection followed an independent evaluation by the Panel of Judges, chaired by Dr Omobola Johnson, and endorsement by the Advisory Board.
She is the first woman and the first millennial to win the Prize as an individual recipient. She is scheduled to receive the US$100,000 award at the Grand Award Night on 9 October 2026.
Sponsored by NLNG, The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation recognises excellence in scientific research and promotes innovations that address practical challenges.
The public presentation advances this objective by connecting winning research with institutions and professionals who can help turn its potential into tangible benefits for society.
