The capacity-building programme, organised by the National Institute for Research and Treatment (NICRAT), took place over three days at the Radiation Oncology Department of the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. It forms part of a nationwide initiative covering Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, aimed at strengthening the country’s cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment systems through innovation.
Addressing participants at the workshop, NICRAT’s Director-General, Prof. Usman Aliyu, said the programme reflects the institute’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into routine cancer care. Represented by the Acting Head of the Nuclear Medicine Unit at UCH, Dr. Jimoh Alani, Aliyu described the training as a strategic intervention designed to improve cancer outcomes and build a technologically proficient oncology workforce.
According to him, the adoption of AI tools in healthcare has become increasingly important, particularly in oncology, where early detection and accurate diagnosis are critical to patient survival. He noted that AI-driven solutions are already transforming cancer care globally by enhancing diagnostic precision, supporting personalised treatment planning and improving follow-up care.
Aliyu explained that the workshop was structured to equip healthcare professionals with practical skills for applying AI across the cancer care continuum, from prevention and diagnosis to treatment and monitoring. Participants, drawn from various oncology-related disciplines, are engaged in expert-led lectures, interactive discussions and hands-on learning sessions.
He expressed confidence that the training would have a multiplier effect across the health sector, as participants return to their respective institutions with improved capacity to deliver quality cancer services. He added that the programme is expected to foster stronger collaboration among clinicians, researchers and policymakers, while contributing to better patient outcomes nationwide.
The NICRAT boss also acknowledged the support of the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and other partners, noting that their backing aligns with the Renewed Hope Health Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Highlighting the growing cancer burden in Nigeria, Aliyu stressed the urgency of embracing innovative solutions to address the challenge. He said AI offers a pathway to improving survival rates, reducing patient suffering and enhancing the overall quality of life for those affected by cancer.
He reaffirmed NICRAT’s commitment to continuous innovation, collaboration and capacity development, urging stakeholders across government, academia and the health sector to support the integration of AI-driven solutions into Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The workshop features in-depth sessions on the fundamentals of AI in oncology and the future of cancer care, AI applications in diagnostic oncology such as digital histopathology and biopsy interpretation, and AI-driven imaging for the precise detection of breast, lung and brain tumours.
Other areas of focus include AI in oncological surgery, machine learning and deep learning in cancer management, AI-assisted clinical decision-making in complex gynaecological cancer cases, AI-enhanced radiotherapy involving auto-contouring and dose prediction, as well as the optimisation of chemotherapy through AI-based dose adjustment, toxicity prediction and personalised treatment regimens.