Awareness, Perception and Usage of Artificial Intelligence Tools in Medical Research Among Nigerian Doctors

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing medical research by enhancing data analysis, literature synthesis, and decision-making processes. While global adoption is growing rapidly, the extent to which Nigerian medical doctors are aware of, perceive, and utilise AI tools in research remains unclear. Objective: To assess the awareness, perception, and usage of artificial intelligence tools among medical doctors involved in research in Nigeria, and to identify socio-demographic factors associated with their use. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured, self-administered online questionnaire distributed among medical doctors across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The questionnaire covered socio-demographic characteristics, awareness and usage of AI tools, perceptions regarding AI, and barriers to adoption. Data were analysed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise variables, while Chi-square tests were applied to determine associations between socio-demographic factors and awareness or usage of AI tools. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 474 respondents participated in the study. The majority were male (72.4%), aged between 30 and 49 years, and practising in the North Central zone (54.2%). Most respondents (96.8%) were aware of AI tools for medical research, but only 64.3% of those aware had used them. The most recognised AI tool was ChatGPT (71.7%). The perceived benefits included faster data processing (82.7%) and improved accuracy (71.1%), while major barriers were a lack of training (93.5%) and ethical concerns (63.7%). Gender (p = 0.048), region (p = 0.011), and field of practice (p = 0.047) were significantly associated with AI awareness and usage. Conclusion: Awareness of AI tools among Nigerian medical doctors is high; however, actual usage remains low. Perceived benefits are strong, but significant barriers persist, particularly in training and ethical clarity. Targeted training and institutional support are recommended to facilitate broader and more effective AI knowledge and utilisation for medical research in Nigeria.