Kwara Cardiologist Develops AI System to Interpret ECGs for African Patients
A foremost cardiologist at the University of Ilorin, Professor Ibraheem Adeola Katibi, has announced the development of a homegrown artificial-intelligence system capable of accurately interpreting electrocardiogram (ECG) readings for African patients.
The innovation, he said, is now functional and undergoing final rounds of validation.
Speaking in an interview in Ilorin, the former Dean of the University’s Medical School and current Director of the Central Research Laboratories explained that the technology addresses long-standing diagnostic inaccuracies caused by relying on ECG machines originally designed for Caucasian populations.
According to him, years of comparative research involving British, Indian and Chinese populations have confirmed clear physiological differences between African and Caucasian ECG patterns. He warned that depending on imported diagnostic devices often “gives the wrong interpretation,” which could result in misdiagnosis and improper treatment.
Professor Katibi revealed that his team has now developed a digital ECG system supported by an AI-driven diagnostic algorithm specifically tailored to African physiology. The tool, he explained, will enable individuals to record and interpret their ECGs using a mobile phone.
Although the device is fully functional, he noted that it is not yet commercially available. “We have validated the diagnostic algorithm. What we want now is a larger-scale trial before commercialisation,” he said.
He added that once completed, the innovation will allow people to check their heart health conveniently at home, much like routine blood sugar or blood pressure monitoring.
The cardiologist lamented Nigeria’s poor funding of research, saying government allocations fall far below global standards when compared with institutions such as the United States’ National Institutes of Health (NIH). He stressed that Nigeria cannot continue depending on imported solutions for local problems that require context-specific understanding.
Professor Katibi also highlighted the infrastructural challenges facing research institutions, noting that many laboratories still struggle with unstable electricity, lack of water supply and insufficient equipment. Only sustained investment, he said, can reposition research centres to produce solutions that address national needs.
On the challenges confronting young Nigerian doctors, he noted that the issue is not competence but an unfavourable working environment. He attributed the mass emigration of medical personnel to poor remuneration, insecurity and the inability of many doctors to afford basic tools, transportation and housing.
He said Nigerian doctors excel abroad because they operate in organised systems that reward effort and provide supportive conditions. “Labour is global,” he added, noting that workers naturally migrate to places where their skills are valued.
Professor Katibi urged leaders to prioritise peace, and invest in education, healthcare and research. He also encouraged citizens to support the current leadership while making informed choices during elections.
On preventive health, he advised Nigerians to reduce salt and seasoning intake, engage in regular exercise, rest adequately and consume fruits and vegetables. He emphasised that individuals with high blood pressure must keep hospital appointments and adhere strictly to medical instructions, noting that medications for hypertension and diabetes are usually for life.
Commenting on the integration of traditional and modern medicine, he pointed to countries like Morocco, India and China, which have refined and repackaged their traditional herbs into safe formulations such as immunity-boosting and relaxation teas.
He said Nigeria must strengthen collaboration with traditional medicine practitioners for national benefit, including foreign exchange earnings.
