Institute trains health workers on AI application in cancer treatment

The National Institute for Research and Treatment (NICRAT) has trained health workers in Nigeria’s Southwest geopolitical zone on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cancer treatment.

The three-day capacity-building workshop, held at the Radiation Oncology Department of the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, is part of a broader nationwide programme spanning the country’s six geopolitical zones.

Speaking at the event, the Director-General of NICRAT, Prof. Usman Aliyu, said the initiative underscores the institute’s commitment to deploying innovation and technology to strengthen cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment in Nigeria.

Aliyu, who was represented by the Acting Head of the Nuclear Medicine Unit, Radiation Oncology Department at UCH, Dr. Jimoh Alani, described the workshop as a strategic intervention aimed at improving cancer outcomes and building a highly skilled oncology workforce capable of leveraging emerging technologies.

He said, “Today, we begin a mission to improve cancer care in Nigeria. NICRAT is proud to lead this effort by using innovation and technology to improve outcomes for cancer patients across the country.”

He noted that NICRAT has continued to play a leading role in cancer prevention, control, research and treatment, adding that the capacity-building programme reflected the institute’s resolve to integrate modern tools such as AI into routine oncology practice.

According to him, AI is revolutionising healthcare globally, with significant implications for oncology. 

He said AI enhances early cancer detection, improves diagnostic accuracy, supports personalised treatment planning and deepens understanding of cancer biology.

“AI also enables us to identify high-risk populations and develop targeted strategies. Its role in cancer care is crucial, and Nigeria must not be left behind.”

He explained that the workshop was designed to equiped healthcare professionals with practical knowledge and skills required to apply AI in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care. 

Participants drawn from various oncology-related disciplines are undergoing intensive training sessions, expert-led discussions and knowledge-sharing engagements throughout the three-day programme.

Aliyu expressed confidence that the training would have a ripple effect across the health sector, as participants return to their institutions better equipped to deliver quality cancer care.

“The benefits of this programme are enormous. It will improve diagnostic precision, enhance treatment planning, strengthen collaboration among clinicians, researchers and policymakers, and ultimately lead to better patient outcomes.”

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He commended Federal Government, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and other partners for their support, describing their commitment to the Renewed Hope Health Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as instrumental to the success of the initiative.

While drawing attention to the rising burden of cancer in Nigeria, Aliyu stressed the urgency of adopting innovative solutions to address the growing challenge.

“Cancer remains a leading cause of illness and death in our country. With Artificial Intelligence, we can turn the tide by improving survival rates, reducing suffering and enhancing the quality of life of cancer patients.”

Aliyu however reaffirmed NICRAT’s commitment towards continuous innovation, collaboration and capacity development in cancer care.

He urged stakeholders across government, academia and the health sector to support the integration of AI-driven solutions.

“Together, we can bring hope to those affected by cancer and build a healthier future for Nigeria.”

The workshop set to feature in-depth sessions on the introduction of Artificial Intelligence in oncology and the future of cancer care, AI applications in diagnostic oncology, including histopathology through digital microscopy and biopsy interpretation, as well as AI-driven cancer imaging for precise detection of breast, lung and brain tumours.

Other focus areas include the application of AI in oncology surgery, machine learning and deep learning in cancer management, AI-assisted clinical decision-making in complex gynaecological cancer cases, AI-enhanced radiotherapy, including auto-contouring, dose prediction and workflow optimisation, and the use of AI to optimise chemotherapy through dose adjustment, toxicity prediction and personalised treatment regimens.