Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria Healthcare: A Review of State, Challenges and Opportunities

Objective: To examine the current stage of Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption in Nigeria’s healthcare system, identify the progress made, the persistent challenges and potential opportunities.Methods: A narrative review of literature from 2013 to 2025 was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, Researchgate and African Journals Online. Studies focusing on AI applications in healthcare settings within were selected.Results: Findings revealed AI applications in diagnostics, telemedicine, public health surveillance, and hospital administration. However, infrastructure gaps, limited digital literacy, and weak regulatory frameworks hinder widespread adoption. Opportunities exist in expanding rural access, predictive diagnostics, hospital efficiency, and health research.Conclusion: By addressing existing barriers through strategic investments, policy reforms, and cross sector collaborations, Nigeria has the potential to harness AI to drive transformative improvements in healthcare delivery. This review serves as a call to action for stakeholders across government, academia, industry, and healthcare to work collectively toward an AI driven, patient centered healthcare future in Nigeria.