Highlights from the 4th SMART Africa MRI Workshop

The 4th SMART Africa MRI Workshop which was held in Lagos, Nigeria, from July 23 to 25, 2025, Centered around the theme “MRI Accessibility for All” brought together over 100 participants within and outside Africa, and what an incredible convergence of science, skill-building, and global collaboration it was.

Attendees of the 4th SMART Africa MRI Workshop.

The event began with an Opening Ceremony graced by key dignitaries, including the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, the Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo and other distinguished guests, highlighting the growing commitment to expanding MRI education and access across Africa.

Prof. Akin Abayomi, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Lagos State, delivering a speech at the Opening Ceremony.

Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo, Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, presenting a goodwill address.

A few distinguished guests present at the Opening Ceremony.

Throughout the three days, participants engaged in intensive hands-on training sessions, live demonstrations, and interactive discussions focused on advanced MRI techniques such as Arterial Spin Labelling (ASL), functional MRI, and other emerging neuroimaging methods. These sessions were enriched by presentations from world-renowned MRI experts including Prof Michela Tosetti, Prof. Iris Asllani, Prof. James Gee, and Prof. Danny Wang, among other distinguished speakers. Designed to build practical skills and deepen understanding of MRI physics, clinical applications, and image interpretation.

Participants deeply engaged in a lecture session at the 4th SMART Africa MRI Workshop.

Focused faces capturing every moment of the session.

Prof. Danny Wang delivering an insightful lecture at the MRI Workshop.

The workshop also featured insightful visits to leading Three (3) MRI centers, including Afriglobal Medicare, Premier care Diagnostics, and BT Diagnostics in LASUTH, where participants observed real-time imaging workflows, discussed equipment optimization, and explored opportunities for collaboration.

A few participants during the MRI facility tour.

MRI Visit.

A memorable evening dinner brought participants together in a relaxed setting to network, share ideas, and build lasting connections across the continent.

Gala Night.

Workshop participants at the Closing Dinner.

To cap off the event, participants were treated to a cultural tour of Lagos, with stops at iconic locations such as the historic Nike Art Gallery, the vibrant Makoko community, and the futuristic Eko Atlantic city. The tour added a unique blend of culture, history, and innovation to the learning experience.

Visit to Nike Art Gallery.

Attendees embracing local culture in traditional outfits at Nike Art Gallery.

Makoko Community visit.

Exploring Makoko Community.

Eko Atlantic city.

A memorable sightseeing experience at Eko Atlantic.

The 4th SMART Africa MRI Workshop proved to be not only a scientific gathering but a celebration of growth, collaboration, and the shared vision of advancing MRI practice in Africa.