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Review Article

Digital Transformation in Radiography Practice in Nigeria: A Comprehensive Review

Authors

  • Ubalaeze Solomon Elechi Department of Radiography, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria https://orcid.org/0009-0002-3474-1002

    elechiuba@gmail.com

  • Adekunle Fatai Adeoye Mathematics and Statistics Department, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
  • Stephen Onyekachi Obiya National University of Science and Technology MISiS, Moscow, Russia
  • Shehu Abubakar Umar National University of Science and Technology MISiS, Moscow, Russia https://orcid.org/0009-0004-5614-334X
  • Victor Chiedozie Ezeamii Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Environmental Health Sciences, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4321-1136
  • Iwu Paul National University of Science and Technology MISiS, Moscow, Russia
  • Ugwuanyi Kentus Obiora Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
  • Abone Kindson Faculty of Dentistry, University of Nigeria https://orcid.org/0009-0002-1197-6634

Abstract

Digital radiography has steadily transformed medical imaging practice in Nigeria over the past two decades, shifting from analog film-based workflows to computerized systems. This narrative review synthesizes literature (2000–2025) on Nigeria’s adoption of digital imaging modalities, the evolving policy environment, operational and economic challenges, workforce training, impacts on workflow and patient outcomes, emerging innovations, and considerations of equity, ethics, and sustainability. Key findings include a slow but accelerating adoption trajectory from the early 2000s through the 2010s, with policy and regulatory frameworks only beginning to catch up. Power supply issues (the infamous NEPA outages) and high costs impede full integration, even as digital systems improve efficiency and image quality. Workforce competencies are improving through training, yet gaps remain in specialized skills. Innovations such as teleradiology, artificial intelligence (AI) for tuberculosis screening, and virtual reality (VR) training are emerging in Nigeria, though equitable access and data governance pose ongoing challenges. In sum, Nigeria’s radiography is undergoing a cautious digital revolution with tangible benefits for workflow and patient care, tempered by resource and infrastructure constraints. 

Keywords:

Digital Radiography Healthcare Technology Nigeria PACS Teleradiology Workforce Training

Article information

Journal

Journal of Medical Science, Biology, and Chemistry

Volume (Issue)

2(1), (2025)

Pages

92-103

Published

22-05-2025

How to Cite

Elechi, U. S., Adeoye, A. F., Obiya, S. O., Umar, S. A., Ezeamii, V. C., Iwu, P., Ugwuanyi , K. O., & Abone, K. (2025). Digital Transformation in Radiography Practice in Nigeria: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of Medical Science, Biology, and Chemistry, 2(1), 92-103. https://doi.org/10.69739/jmsbc.v2i1.562

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