July 22, 2025 – Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has secured a €5 million research grant from the European Union to spearhead the development of an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered microscope aimed at revolutionizing the diagnosis of parasitic diseases across Africa.
The landmark initiative, part of the EU’s global health innovation programme, will see ABU collaborate with leading research institutions and technology partners to design and deploy intelligent diagnostic tools tailored to the continent’s unique health challenges.
According to university officials, the AI microscope will significantly improve the accuracy, speed, and affordability of diagnosing diseases caused by parasites such as malaria, schistosomiasis, and leishmaniasis — conditions that continue to impact millions of people, especially in underserved regions.
Vice-Chancellor of ABU Zaria, Professor Kabiru Bala, described the grant as a breakthrough for scientific advancement in Nigeria. He stated that the project aligns with the university’s commitment to high-impact research and underscores the importance of using technology to close critical healthcare gaps in sub-Saharan Africa.
The AI microscope will be trained using machine learning models to detect parasites in blood, tissue, and stool samples with minimal human intervention. Once developed, it is expected to enhance early detection, reduce misdiagnosis, and support healthcare workers in rural and low-resource settings.
The project is scheduled to span over four years, with pilot testing planned in select communities within Nigeria and other African countries.
