Saheed Azeez, a final year Mechanical Engineering student at University of Lagos (UNILAG) has launched a Nigerian-accented text-to-speech model.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Artificial intelligence-powered model named ‘YarnGPT’ is designed to capture all the nuances and complexities of Nigerian languages as it delivers speech in clear Nigerian accents.
In recognition of his innovation, National Orientation Agency (NOA) has honoured him as the Real Nigerian of the Week.
The agency in a post on its official X handle on Thursday, announced the launching of the text-to-speech model.
It noted that the innovation will not only transform how AI is experienced in Nigeria but also make the technology more inclusive and reflective of our unique identity.
NOA wrote, “Azeez Saheed has just launched YarnGPT, a groundbreaking Text-to-Speech (TTS) model that brings Nigerian-accented English to life.”
“This innovation is set to transform how we experience AI in Nigeria, making technology more inclusive and reflective of our unique identity.”
“Supporting and encouraging our local innovators is a duty of care. At NOA, we take pride in celebrating Nigerian excellence.”
“Today, we recognize Azeez Saheed as the Real Nigerian of the Week!”
