Nigerian Scientist Wins $100,000 for AI MRI Innovation

Mary Brenda Akoda, a Nigerian scientist and artificial intelligence researcher, won the 2026 Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation (NPSI) for her innovative technology, GenScan AI, which significantly reduces the time required for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans. The announcement was made during a press conference in Lagos on Tuesday, following an evaluation by the Prize’s Panel of Judges, chaired by former Minister of Communications, Dr. Omobola Johnson.

Akoda was selected from a record 237 entries, marking her as the first millennial and first woman to win the prize individually. Dr. Sophia Horsfall, General Manager at Nigeria LNG Limited, stated that the 2026 competition maintained high standards, especially after a “no winner” verdict in 2025.

GenScan AI, which accelerates MRI image reconstruction while improving image quality, aims to enhance healthcare accessibility, particularly in resource-constrained systems like Nigeria. Akoda, a First-Class graduate from Goldsmiths and a Master’s graduate from Imperial College London, will receive the $100,000 prize at the Grand Award Night on October 9, 2026.