In a convergence of science, innovation, and the future of human, the University of Lagos (UNILAG), through its College of Medicine, on Thursday, September 25, 2025 hosted the 42nd Annual Scientific Conference of the Physiological Society of Nigeria (PSN).
With the theme “Artificial Intelligence in Physiology: Exploring the Intersection of Intelligence and Life,” the conference spotlighted the transformative role of AI in biomedical research, healthcare delivery, and physiological education.
Held at the Old Great Hall, College of Medicine, Idi-Araba campus, the event drew leading experts, healthcare professionals, academic researchers, and policy advocates from across the country.
Dr. Olusola Ayoola Delivers Stirring Keynote on AI and the Human Condition
Delivering the keynote address, Founder and CEO of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN), Dr. Olusola Ayoola set a compelling tone for the day. Speaking on “Intelligence and Life: The Intersection,” he described the rise of AI in healthcare not as a luxury, but as a generational necessity.
His words “From generation to generation, we have faced evolving health challenges. Artificial intelligence represents our attempt to complement mortal capacity with machine precision not to replace professionals, but to expand the reach, accuracy, and compassion of healthcare,”.
Dr. Olusola Ayoola highlighted the significant human cost resulting from medical errors, negligence, and systemic shortcomings within the healthcare sector including misdiagnoses, counterfeit medications, and the growing prevalence of unqualified practitioners. He identified these issues as critical threats that can be effectively addressed through the strategic deployment of intelligent systems.
He explained that the rapid growth of the population has outpaced the availability of qualified healthcare professionals, creating a gap that often leads to dangerous improvisations in care. Intelligent systems, he noted, can play a vital role in supporting clinical decision-making, validating treatments, and establishing essential checks and balances within healthcare delivery. This, in turn, would contribute to a more responsive, accountable, and patient-centred healthcare environment.
Beyond diagnosis and automation, he underscored the importance of how medical issues are communicated, managed, and resolved particularly in complex or emotionally sensitive situations. He pointed to technological advancements such as AI-enabled telemedicine, automated diagnostic tools, digital prescription monitoring, and early warning systems for disease outbreaks as critical innovations shaping the future of care.
Dr. Ayoola concluded that building systems that are not only technologically advanced but also grounded in empathy is essential. In his view, the intersection of intelligence and life must aim not only to extend human lifespan but also to improve the quality of life through equitable, compassionate, and data-driven healthcare solutions.
UNILAG Leadership Affirms AI as a Catalyst for Scientific Breakthroughs
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, the Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor Ademola Oremosu, described the theme as both timely and visionary.
“Artificial intelligence is not just a tool – it’s a transformative force. We are witnessing a fusion of biology and machine learning, where diagnostic systems learn from data just as our bodies learn from experience,” he said.
He encouraged researchers and educators to embrace this shift as an opportunity for groundbreaking collaboration and redefined teaching methodologies in physiology and the wider biomedical sciences.
Scientific Crossroads: A New Era for Physiology
In her remarks, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, Professor Bolanle Olubusola Iranloye, highlighted the importance of embracing this “scientific crossroads” – where the study of life meets the logic of machines.
A Call for Policy and Investment in Human Capital
In a passionate address, President of the Physiological Society of Nigeria, Professor Abdul Rasak Akinola Alada underscored the urgent need for better investment in the nation’s healthcare workforce.
According to him, the brain drain in Nigeria’s healthcare sector is not just about opportunities abroad but it’s about hunger, neglect, and poor emoluments. Innovation cannot thrive where survival is uncertain,” he said.
He, therefore, called on the government to take bold steps in improving salaries, research funding, and institutional support for both healthcare and academia.
The 42nd PSN Scientific Conference reaffirmed UNILAG’s position at the forefront of scientific inquiry and interdisciplinary innovation. With a bold embrace of artificial intelligence and a renewed call for systemic reform, the university and its partners are charting a future where science, technology, and humanity work hand in hand.
Author: Afolabi Akinola
Photographer: Islamiat Akanni
