NLNG Unveils GenScan AI to Transform Medical Imaging and Accelerate Healthcare Innovation in Nigeria

 

 NLNG Unveils GenScan AI to Transform Medical Imaging and Accelerate Healthcare Innovation in Nigeria

...AI-Powered Innovation Could Cut MRI Scan Times by Up to 90%, Expanding Access to Faster Diagnostic Services





By Hypenews Reports 


Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) has unveiled GenScan AI, the winning innovation of the 2026 Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation (NPSI), highlighting the technology’s potential to accelerate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), improve diagnostic efficiency and expand access to quality healthcare services in Nigeria.

Developed by Mary-Brenda Akoda, GenScan AI applies artificial intelligence to MRI imaging with the objective of significantly reducing scan acquisition time while maintaining or improving image quality.

The technology was presented to key stakeholders in Abuja as part of efforts to explore its potential application within Nigeria’s healthcare system and identify the pathways required to advance the innovation from research into practical clinical use.

According to the NPSI Advisory Board, the winning innovation incorporates the C-MORE algorithm, a one-step framework for reconstructing MRI images that has the potential to reduce scan acquisition times by up to 90 per cent without requiring new MRI hardware.

If successfully deployed, the innovation could enable healthcare facilities to examine more patients using existing MRI infrastructure, reduce waiting periods and improve utilisation of expensive diagnostic equipment.

Speaking at the presentation, Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, NLNG, stressed the importance of accurate and timely diagnosis in effective healthcare delivery.

She noted that diagnostic imaging provides critical evidence that enables medical professionals to identify health conditions and make informed decisions regarding patient treatment.

«“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.”»

Also speaking on the winning innovation, Professor Barth Nnaji, a member of the NPSI Advisory Board, said GenScan AI distinguished itself through the strength of its scientific foundation and its potential to address a practical healthcare challenge.

He emphasised the importance of further engagement with clinicians and other relevant stakeholders to determine how the technology can be evaluated, developed and potentially deployed safely and effectively within healthcare environments.

Akoda emerged as the 2026 Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation 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 assessment by the Panel of Judges, chaired by Dr Omobola Johnson, and subsequent endorsement by the NPSI Advisory Board.

Akoda is the first woman and first millennial to win the Prize as an individual recipient. She is scheduled to receive the US$100,000 prize at the Grand Award Night on 9 October 2026.

Sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited, The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation is designed to recognise outstanding scientific research and encourage innovations capable of addressing practical challenges facing Nigeria and its people.

The public presentation of GenScan AI reinforces the Prize’s broader objective of connecting scientific research with institutions, professionals and industry stakeholders capable of helping translate promising innovations into practical solutions with measurable societal impact.

For Nigeria’s healthcare sector, the development also highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence, digital technology and locally developed innovation in strengthening critical infrastructure and improving the efficiency and accessibility of essential services.


Hypenews Reports