A 20-year-old Nigerian inventor, Khalifa Aminu, is developing AI-powered glasses designed to help blind and visually impaired people detect obstacles, navigate their surroundings and remain connected to caregivers.
The Kano-based inventor recently showcased an updated version of the project, combining artificial intelligence, sensors and GPS to provide assistance to users with visual impairments.
Unlike smart glasses primarily developed for entertainment or communication, Aminu’s project is focused on improving mobility and independence for visually impaired people.
The device uses sensors to identify objects in front of the wearer and provide alerts intended to help users avoid obstacles.
Its GPS capability is also designed to provide location information. Aminu said the system could help locate a user who becomes lost by sending their location to a caregiver through WhatsApp or email.
A newer version is being developed with AI-powered voice interaction. The aim is for the glasses to communicate with the wearer and provide information about their surroundings.
Aminu’s interest in assistive technology was influenced by seeing visually impaired people in his community struggle with movement and everyday activities.
His earlier prototype used ultrasonic and infrared sensors to detect obstacles and alert users. The device was tested by a visually impaired man in his community, whose feedback helped Aminu identify areas that needed improvement.
Suggestions included reducing the size of the hardware, introducing a wireless switch and replacing basic warning sounds with clearer voice alerts.
These recommendations have since contributed to the continued development of the project.
The latest project represents an expansion of Aminu’s original sensory glasses.
While the first version concentrated mainly on detecting obstacles, the newer concept incorporates AI, GPS tracking and voice interaction.
The proposed voice system could allow the glasses to provide users with information about their surroundings rather than simply warning them when an object is nearby.
The location feature could also provide additional assistance to caregivers when a user becomes lost.
However, the technology remains under development, and there is currently insufficient independent technical evidence to establish that the prototype can reliably replace established mobility aids such as canes or guides in every environment.
Aminu began developing inventions before his latest AI glasses project. His previous work has included a radio transmitter, agricultural equipment and other electronic projects.
Reports say he largely taught himself by studying how different technologies work and experimenting with available components.
His work on assistive glasses attracted wider attention while he was still a teenager. In 2024, Nigeria’s National Commission for Persons with Disabilities expressed interest in meeting him to assess his invention and explore possible support.
The Kano Patriotic Front also supported his work with equipment, a laptop, workspace assistance and sponsorship for his education and inventions.
Aminu’s latest development adds to his growing portfolio of technology projects and highlights his continued effort to create locally developed solutions to problems affecting people in his community.
Do you think Khalifa Aminu’s AI glasses could become a practical everyday tool for blind and visually impaired Nigerians?
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