From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A foremost cardiologist at the University of Ilorin, Professor Ibraheem Katibi, has announced the development of a locally built artificial-intelligence system capable of interpreting ECG readings specifically for African patients.
The innovation, he said, is fully functional and currently undergoing final rounds of validation.
Speaking in an interview in Ilorin over the weekend, the former Dean of the University’s College of Health Sciences and current Director of the Central Research Laboratories, explained that the breakthrough is aimed at correcting long-standing diagnostic inaccuracies resulting from using ECG machines originally designed for Caucasian populations.
Professor Katibi noted that after several years of comparative research involving British, Indian and Chinese populations, his team discovered clear physiological differences between African and Caucasian ECG patterns. Relying solely on imported ECG machines, he warned, often leads to wrong interpretations and can result in misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.
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He revealed that his team has now built both a digital ECG system and an AI-powered diagnostic algorithm tailored to African physiology. With the new system, individuals will be able to record and interpret ECG readings using their mobile phones.
Although the device is fully functional, 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.
According to him, once completed and deployed, the innovation will enable people to check their heart health at home just as they currently monitor their blood sugar or blood pressure.
Professor Katibi lamented the chronic underfunding of research in Nigeria, noting that 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 foreign-developed solutions for local health challenges that require indigenous understanding.
He further highlighted structural weaknesses in research institutions across the country, including poor electricity supply, inadequate water, and insufficient equipment. Only sustained investment, he said, can reposition Nigerian laboratories to produce solutions that address national needs.
Speaking on the situation of young Nigerian doctors, Professor Katibi said the issue is not lack of competence but a harsh working environment. He attributed the continuous migration of medical personnel to poor remuneration, insecurity, and the inability of many young doctors to afford basic work tools, transport, and accommodation.
He added that Nigerian doctors thrive abroad because those systems are organised, supportive, and reward excellence. “Labour is global,” he said, pointing out that professionals naturally relocate to places where their skills are valued.
The cardiologist urged leaders to prioritise peace, invest in education and health, and fund research adequately. He also appealed to citizens to support the country’s leadership while making informed decisions at the polls.
On preventive health, he advised Nigerians to reduce salt and seasoning intake, exercise regularly, rest well, and eat fruits and vegetables. Individuals diagnosed with hypertension, he noted, must keep their hospital appointments and adhere strictly to medical advice, adding that medications for hypertension and diabetes are typically for life.
Professor Katibi also spoke on the relationship between traditional and modern medicine, noting that countries such as Morocco, India and China have advanced by refining and repackaging traditional herbs into safe products like immunity-boosting and calming teas.
Nigeria, he said, must work more closely with traditional medicine practitioners to deepen collaboration, improve public health outcomes, and explore opportunities for foreign exchange earnings.
