NLNG unveils Akoda’s GenScan AI, winner of 2026 Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation
***** Winning innovation, selected from 237 entries, promises faster MRI scans and improved medical imaging in Nigeria
…….. Mary-Brenda Akoda becomes first woman and first millennial to win the Prize as an individual recipient
NLNG Limited has unveiled GenScan AI, the winning innovation of the 2026 Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation (NPSI), developed by Mary-Brenda Akoda, to industry stakeholders in Abuja.
The innovation emerged as the winner from a record 237 entries submitted under the theme, “Innovations in Artificial Intelligence, ICT and Digital Technologies for Development.”
GenScan AI is an artificial intelligence-driven technology designed to shorten MRI scan times while maintaining or improving image quality. The innovation also offers the potential to expand access to diagnostic services and strengthen healthcare delivery across Nigeria.
Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku, Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs at NLNG Limited, said in a statement obtained by Advisors Reports on Monday that GenScan AI was presented to stakeholders in Abuja as part of efforts to explore its potential application in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
According to Palmer-Ikuku, the presentation brought together relevant stakeholders to examine the technology’s potential and discuss the steps required to translate the research into clinical use.
The Advisory Board of the Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation, which declared GenScan AI the winning innovation, said its C-MORE algorithm uses a one-step framework to reconstruct MRI images and has the potential to reduce scan acquisition times by up to 90 per cent without requiring new MRI hardware.
“By shortening scan times, the technology could enable healthcare providers to attend to more patients, reduce waiting times and make better use of existing MRI equipment.
“These potential benefits informed the recognition of its relevance to healthcare delivery,” the NPSI Advisory Board stated.
In her welcome remarks, Sophia Horsfall, NLNG’s General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, emphasised the importance of accurate diagnosis to effective treatment.
She noted that diagnostic imaging provides evidence that enables medical teams to 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,” Horsfall said.
She added that the presentation of the innovation to stakeholders provided an opportunity to discuss what would be required to move its potential from research into practical application.
Professor Barth Nnaji, a member of the Prize’s Advisory Board, said the winning innovation stood out because of the strength of its science and its potential to address a practical healthcare challenge.
He identified engagement with clinicians and other stakeholders as an important next step in determining how the technology could be deployed safely and effectively.
Nnaji said the stakeholder presentation would also help assess the innovation’s potential and the requirements for its further development and application.
Akoda’s selection followed an independent evaluation by the Panel of Judges, chaired by Dr Omobola Johnson.
NLNG said Akoda is the first woman and first millennial to win the Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation as an individual recipient. She is scheduled to receive the US$100,000 prize at the Grand Award Night on October 9, 2026.
Sponsored by NLNG, the Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation recognises excellence in scientific research and promotes innovations capable of addressing practical challenges.
The public presentation of the winning innovation advances that objective by connecting cutting-edge research with institutions, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders who can help translate scientific breakthroughs into tangible benefits for society.
