Here are the 45 grantees for National AI Research Grant Scheme ( NAIRS)

In October 2023, Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, introduced the “Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme,” an initiative designed to provide financial support to startups and researchers, aiming to create a vibrant and sustainable artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem within Nigeria.

The Honourable Minister, in a post on X, has announced the 45 grantees which come from healthcare to agriculture, finance to education.

The Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme aims to foster a vibrant and sustainable AI ecosystem in
Nigeria by providing grants and facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration among individuals and
organisations in the AI industry.

I am delighted to announce the list of National AI Research Grant Scheme ( NAIRS) 45 grantees here https://t.co/6lbUH2BrLE

After a rigorous evaluation process, with the help of 25 distinguished Nigerian AI experts from across the world, we have identified some exceptional… pic.twitter.com/dXbOc1HW5N

— Dr. 'Bosun Tijani (@bosuntijani) December 19, 2023

The meticulous selection process, driven by a dedication to excellence and impact, underwent careful evaluation by 26 esteemed reviewers from renowned institutions worldwide. These experts, with their diverse backgrounds and expertise, played a crucial role in upholding the highest standards throughout our selection process.

Eligible AI researchers and startups can apply for grants of up to N5,000,000 (Five million Naira).

Here are the 45 grantees:

HEALTH

1. Ofordum Ikenna David (Nigerian Researcher) – Revolutionizing cancer treatment in Nigeria using machine learning and deep learning algorithms.
2. TechCare Diagnostics Research Team (Nigerian Researcher) – Creation of a centralised online library for the collection and interpretation of X-Ray, CTScan, MRI and Genomic Data using AI.
3. Aurelius (Startup) – AI system for automated contouring in radiation therapy planning.
4. Hauwa Ahmad Amshi (Nigerian Researcher) – AI and telemedicine for predicting, monitoring, and raising awareness about chronic kidney disease linked to water contamination.
5. Lagos State University (Nigerian Researcher) – Wearable sensor-based AI system for early detection and personalized management of lung cancer.
6. Cardio Intel (Startup) – AI-enabled mobile app for personalized monitoring and early detection of cardiovascular diseases.
7. Nurse Oge (Startup) – AI-powered healthcare model for patient monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment.
8. Nasir Idris Ibrahim (Nigerian Researcher) – AI-driven mental health support platform leveraging cloud computing for personalized assistance to people dealing with depression
9. Dr. Obasa, Adekunle Isiaka (Nigerian Researcher) – Application using hybrid machine learning techniques to improve the diagnosis of ischemic strokes in CT scan images.
10. Adejo George Ode (Nigerian Researcher) – Predicting and preventing tropical diseases using AI in regions with limited resources.
11. Tamela (Startup) – Development and training of AI models for ultrasound imaging in pregnancy.
12. Maruf Adewole (Nigerian Researcher) – Low-resource PACS platform for improving access to imaging data and AI applications in healthcare.
13. All For Tech Empowerment Foundation (Technology Company) – AI-driven Clinical Decision Support System for managing Diphtheria in African regions.
14. Quantum Innovative Tech Solutions Ltd (Startup) – AI-powered personal health management system for real-time insights and anomaly detection.
15. Life-Elixir Computers (Startup) – Region-specific AI algorithms for cancer diagnosis in medical image analysis.

AGRICULTURE

16. Abidoye Luqman Kolawole (Nigerian Researcher) – UAVs and deep learning for real-time pest detection and automated pesticide spraying in crop fields.
17. Farmspeak Technology Limited (Startup) – AI platform for real-time insights to reduce poultry mortality rates and enhance climate resilience.
18. Dr Harisu Abdullahi Shehu (Nigerian in Diaspora Researcher) – AI for early detection and management of Tuta absoluta infestations in tomato crops.
19. Yakubu Ibrahim (Nigerian Researcher) – Computer vision and UAVs for real-time bird detection in rice fields to increase crop yields.
20. Dr. Ronke Seyi Babatunde (Nigerian Researcher) – AI-powered integrated crop management system in Nigeria to address farmers’ challenges and increase productivity.
21. Erike, Azubuike Izuchukwu (Nigerian Researcher) – Smartphone app integrating AI into agricultural extension services for real-time assistance.
22. Ahmadu Bello University Zaria (Nigerian Researcher) – Space-Based AI Solution for Agriculture in Nigeria to monitor soil moisture and enhance productivity.
23. Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim (Nigerian Researcher) – Integrated AI-Based Crop Disease Management Solution for smallholder farmers.
24. Muallim Yakubu (Nigerian Researcher) – Effective use of AI in improving agricultural productivity and sustainable farming practices.
25. Dr. Olakunle Elijah (Nigerian Researcher) – Advanced sensing technologies and machine learning for early disease detection in ginger plants.
26. Godwin Ani / Gwin Technologies Limited (Startup) – Smart mobile diagnostic tool using AI for animal health.

EDUCATION

27. Data Scientists Network (Technology Company) – Evaluation of AI-generated learning content for improved STEM education in low-income households.
28. Edunetix (Startup) – AI technology for personalised education and career advice.
29. Bello Abdullahi (Nigerian Researcher) – Research Summary: AI-powered voice assistants to enhance language learning and reading assistance in online education.
30. Ibrahim Lukman Kehinde (Nigerian Researcher) – Research Summary: Challenges faced by industries in optimising operations and maintenance using AI methods.
31. Segun Oladele (Nigerian Researcher) – Smart devices and AI for a personalised intelligence tutoring system in education.

FINANCE

32. Vergold Nigeria Limited (Nigerian Researcher) – AI to add trust to online businesses, especially in social commerce.
33. NaYa Finance Technology Limited (Technology Company) – Research Summary: Autonomous Cognitive Entity (ACE) for holistic decision-making in capital markets using generative AI.
34. Lendsqr (Startup) – Research Summary: Use of AI and alternative data sources for quick and bias-free credit decisions.

GOVERNANCE

35. Shamsuddeen Hassan Muhammad (Nigerian Researcher) – Research Summary: Advanced language detection models for offensive content in major Nigerian languages on social media.
36. IDB Analytics (Startup) – AI and geofencing technology to address security challenges in regions affected by conflicts.
37. Dr. Israel Udoh (Startup) – Comprehensive mathematical framework for counterterrorism using AI and machine learning.

SUSTAINABILITY

38. Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano (Nigerian Researcher) – Integrated smart water solutions using IoT technology and environmental sensor technologies.
39. Dr Aneyo, Idowu (Nigerian Researcher) – Low-cost, AI-enabled acoustic monitoring system for water bodies in Nigeria.
40. Shamsudeen Temitope Yekeen (Nigerian in Diaspora Researcher) – Integrated Earth Observation Satellite and AI system for rapid detection and response to oil spills.
41. Dr. Sani Muazu (Nigerian in Diaspora Researcher) – AI-driven model to optimise urban resource management using machine learning techniques.
42. Dr. Evans Woherem (Nigerian Researcher) – AI-driven predictive model and decision support system for forecasting and managing the economic impact of cross-border dam water release in Nigeria.

UTILITY

43. Centre for Artificial Intelligence (Startup) – AI system for assessing vulnerability and providing adaptation solutions to communities facing climate change impacts.
44. Eya Candidus Ugwuoke (Nigerian Researcher) – Solar-powered charging stations and rechargeable lanterns with AI-enabled energy monitoring for rural areas.

OTHERS

45. Qudus Onikeku (Nigerian Researcher) – Protection of the intellectual property of dancers using AI technology and economic incentives.