The Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre (BioRTC) at Yobe State University, Damaturu, says it has collected 1,100 biopsies and blood samples for its ongoing Dementia Research Project.
This is contained in a statement by the university’s Information Officer, Abdulmunini Gulani, in Damaturu on Sunday.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), dementia refers to a group of diseases that impair memory, thinking and the ability to carry out daily activities. It is a leading cause of death and disability among older people worldwide.
Gulani said the project, which is the first large-scale dementia cohort study in Northern Nigeria, would feed into Africa’s first open-access Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) biobank.
He explained that the research is being led by Prof. Mahmoud Maina, Founder and Director of BioRTC and Special Adviser to Gov. Mai Mala Buni on Science, Research and Innovation.
He added that in addition to dementia, the samples would be screened for diabetes, malaria, kidney diseases and other health conditions, making the study an integrated approach to tackling multiple health challenges.
“The milestone is not just about dementia — it’s about placing Yobe on the global map of biomedical research,” Gulani quoted Maina as saying.
“By combining community engagement, world-class scientists, and partnerships across Nigeria, the UK, U.S., The Netherlands and other African countries, we are building the foundation for discoveries that will benefit our people and contribute to global health.
“The knowledge we generate will help detect diseases earlier, improve treatments and ultimately save lives,” he added.
Gulani commended Gov. Buni for approving the use of primary health care centres in Damaturu as research hubs and acknowledged the role of Dr Kundi Machina, Executive Secretary of Yobe Primary Health Care Board, in ensuring smooth field operations.
He also lauded the Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Shehu Hashimi II Ibn Umar El-Kanemi, and Yobe communities for their support and participation in the project.
