NLNG-backed GenScan AI Promises 90% Faster MRI Scans for Nigerians

Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) recently unveiled GenScan AI, a groundbreaking medical imaging innovation powered by artificial intelligence. This technology holds the potential to drastically reduce Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan times by up to 90 percent, while simultaneously maintaining or even improving image quality.

Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku, NLNG's Manager for Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, confirmed this development in a statement released on Tuesday, detailing the technology's presentation to key stakeholders in Abuja. GenScan AI, conceptualized by Mary-Brenda Akoda, secured the top spot in the 2026 Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation, an award proudly sponsored by NLNG.

According to the official statement, this cutting-edge solution employs the C-MORE algorithm to reconstruct MRI images within a single framework. This method could potentially slash scan acquisition times by up to 90 percent, crucially, without necessitating any upgrades or new MRI hardware. Such a technological leap could significantly empower healthcare facilities, allowing them to serve a greater number of patients, shorten lengthy waiting lists, and optimize the use of their current MRI infrastructure. This is particularly vital given the persistent challenges in accessing advanced diagnostic services across various regions of Nigeria.

During the presentation event, Sophia Horsfall, NLNG's General Manager for External Relations and Sustainable Development, emphasized the company's commitment to translating scientific breakthroughs into tangible benefits for the populace. She stated, “Our interest goes beyond recognising an outstanding idea. We want to see scientific research make a practical difference in people’s lives.”

Horsfall further elaborated that “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 underscored the critical role of precise diagnosis in achieving effective treatment outcomes, explaining that diagnostic imaging furnishes medical teams with essential evidence to accurately pinpoint health conditions and guide informed decisions regarding patient management.

Professor Barth Nnaji, a distinguished member of the Prize's Advisory Board, also addressed the gathering. He highlighted that Akoda’s winning submission distinguished itself due to its robust scientific foundation and its capacity to tackle a pressing real-world healthcare challenge. Nnaji stressed that collaborative engagement with clinicians and other relevant parties would be crucial in establishing the safe and effective deployment of this technology. He noted that the stakeholder event served as a platform to assess the innovation's full potential and outline the steps required for its continued development and ultimate implementation.

Akoda’s victory in 2026 was chosen from an unprecedented 237 entries, all submitted under the overarching theme, “Innovations in Artificial Intelligence, ICT and Digital Technologies for Development.” Her selection was the result of a rigorous, independent assessment conducted by a Panel of Judges, led by Dr. Omobola Johnson, and subsequently ratified by the Advisory Board. Notably, Mary-Brenda Akoda makes history as both the first woman and the first millennial to individually clinch this prestigious Prize. She is slated to be formally presented with the US$100,000 award during the Grand Award Night on October 9, 2026.

This breakthrough emerges at a time when Nigeria is actively striving to enhance access to prompt and precise diagnostic services. The nation currently faces a challenge where cutting-edge medical equipment and specialized healthcare provisions are unevenly distributed. While MRI is a crucial tool for diagnosing ailments of the brain, spine, joints, and internal organs, the scanning procedures are often protracted, and the substantial expense of procuring and maintaining MRI devices significantly limits their availability.

Consequently, an innovation that can shorten scan durations without the need for new hardware presents a significant advantage. It could empower healthcare institutions to fully leverage their existing MRI scanners, thereby potentially boosting the volume of patients who can undergo examinations. Nevertheless, transitioning GenScan AI from its research phase into standard clinical practice will necessitate extensive additional testing and validation. This also requires active collaboration with clinicians and other key stakeholders to thoroughly ascertain its safety, dependability, and appropriateness for diverse diagnostic applications. The recent presentation in Abuja was specifically designed to bridge the gap between this research and the healthcare professionals and organizations capable of evaluating its readiness for real-world implementation.

The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation, a flagship initiative backed by NLNG, aims to commend exceptional scientific research and innovative solutions poised to tackle pressing developmental issues within Nigeria. The 2026 iteration specifically spotlighted artificial intelligence, information and communication technology, and digital technologies, mirroring the increasing integration of these advanced technologies into various sectors, including the crucial field of healthcare. It is anticipated that the public unveiling of GenScan AI will stimulate further dialogue on the pathways for developing, validating, and ultimately deploying this innovation to enhance the efficiency of medical imaging services across Nigeria.