Health and technology experts have called for the urgent integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Nigeria’s healthcare system to bridge critical service gaps, improve diagnostics, and enhance mental health delivery across the country.
The call was made during the 8th International Yaba Research Conference held on the 22nd of October, 2025 at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital (FNPH), Yaba, Lagos, with the theme “Artificial Intelligence in Mental Health Research: Carrying the Third World Along.”. Hosted by DR. Olugbenga A. Owoeye, Medical Director FNPH, Yaba Lagos(1).
The Guest speaker at the event, Dr. Sheriff Alimi, an Artificial Intelligence expert, said AI is rapidly transforming global healthcare systems by improving the speed and accuracy of diagnosis, treatment, and research outcomes. He urged developing nations like Nigeria to adopt technology-driven systems capable of meeting modern health demands.
In his remarks, the Medical Director of FNPH Yaba, Dr. Olugbenga Owoeye, noted that Nigeria faces a severe shortage of medical professionals due to brain drain and limited training capacity. He emphasized that AI could help fill manpower gaps, especially in mental healthcare services where demand continues to grow. “It is useful for assessment and delivery. Very soon, patients won’t need to visit the hospital to access health services.”(2)
Owoeye dismissed fears that AI would replace human workers, stressing that technology is meant to complement, not displace, healthcare professionals. He noted that the human factor will never be discarded, AI should be seen as an ally to strengthen our health system, not a threat.
He also pointed out that AI could help extend mental health services to patients who avoid hospitals due to stigma, through mobile-based AI tools and digital consultations.
The Chair of the conference, Dr. Mashudat Bello-Mojeed, described Nigeria’s mental health system as outdated and urged the Federal Government to establish a dedicated department of mental health to align with modern global practices.
She called on policymakers to prioritize digital transformation in health institutions, adding that AI could play a pivotal role in research, early detection of disorders, and improving access to care.
Experts at the conference agreed that embracing AI could help Nigeria overcome persistent challenges such as workforce shortages, poor data management, and limited access to specialist care. They emphasized the need for partnerships between government agencies, universities, and the private sector to build capacity and ensure ethical implementation of AI in healthcare delivery.
References
1. FNPH, Yaba. Research & Conference.
2. Innocent Anoruo. Medical, tech experts canvass use of AI in healthcare. 2025; Available from: https://guardian.ng/features/health/medical-tech-experts-canvass-use-of-ai-in-healthcare/
