Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has secured a prestigious €5 million grant to develop an AI-powered microscope aimed at improving the diagnosis of parasitic diseases such as African trypanosomiasis, malaria, leishmaniasis, and filariasis.
The grant was awarded under the MultiplexAI project—one of only five Horizon Europe-funded initiatives selected from Nigeria, and the first of its kind to be hosted by a Nigerian university. The funding falls under the Horizon Europe EDCTP3 call on “Innovative Digital Health Solutions for Sub-Saharan Africa”, which saw 240 proposals submitted across six thematic areas in digital diagnostics. After a competitive evaluation process, only four projects were approved, including *MultiplexAI.
Dr. Gloria Dada Chechet, a Reader in the Department of Biochemistry at ABU, is the Scientific Project Lead for MultiplexAI. A biochemist and molecular parasitologist, Dr. Chechet is also a researcher at the university’s **Africa Centre of Excellence for Neglected Tropical Diseases and Forensic Biotechnology (ACENTDFB)**. Her expertise spans disease control, diagnostics, and gender equity in global health.
Dr. Chechet is a fellow of the *Science by Women* and *Learn Africa* programmes of Fundacíon Mujeres Por África and has received international fellowships supporting her research in neglected tropical diseases and African women’s representation in global health leadership.
Designed specifically for rural and hard-to-reach communities, the MultiplexAI project will equip health workers with AI-enabled tools to detect multiple infections at the point of care using only a microscope, smartphone, and mobile application.
This achievement significantly boosts ABU’s standing as a leader in digital health innovation across Africa. The university’s role in both the scientific and clinical leadership of the project reinforces its research strength and capacity for high-impact international collaboration.
The Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the University Council, Senate, and Management, congratulated the Africa Centre of Excellence for Neglected Tropical Diseases and Forensic Biotechnology and commended Dr. Chechet for her pivotal role in securing the grant.
This milestone also highlights Nigeria’s expanding capabilities in scientific research, digital technology, and public health innovation.
