AI innovation cuts MRI scan time by 90%, wins $100,000 NLNG prize

A Nigerian Artificial Intelligence (AI) researcher, Mary-Brenda Akoda, has emerged winner of the 2026 Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation, organised by Nigerian LNG Limited (NLNG), after beating 236 other entries in a competition that attracted 237 submissions.
She developed an imaging technology capable of reducing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan time by up to 90 per cent, potentially enabling hospitals to examine thousands more patients without purchasing additional scanners.
Akoda’s innovation, GenScan AI, earned her the $100,000 prize money attached to the award.
She explained that the technology was designed to work with existing MRI machines and can reduce a 20-minu...