The Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre (BioRTC) at Yobe State University, Damaturu, has gathered 1,100 blood and biopsy samples as part of its groundbreaking Dementia Research Project.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dementia refers to a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. It primarily impacts older adults, progressively worsening over time. Globally, dementia ranks as the seventh leading cause of death and is one of the major drivers of disability and dependency among the elderly.
The university’s Information Officer, Abdulmunini Gulani, explained that this initiative represents the first large-scale dementia cohort study in Northern Nigeria. The research will contribute to Africa’s first open-access Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) biobank.
Led by Prof. Mahmoud Maina, Founder and Director of BioRTC and Special Adviser to Governor Mai Mala Buni on Science, Research and Innovation, the project will also screen collected samples for other health conditions such as diabetes, malaria, and kidney diseases.
“This milestone is not just about dementia — it’s about placing Yobe on the global biomedical research map,” Prof. Maina said. “By combining community participation, world-class expertise, and collaborations across Nigeria, the UK, U.S., The Netherlands, and other African countries, we are laying a foundation for discoveries that will benefit our people and global health. The knowledge generated will help detect diseases earlier, improve treatments, and ultimately save lives.”
Gulani highlighted the vital support received from Governor Buni, who approved the use of primary health centres in Damaturu as research hubs. He also praised Dr. Kundi Machina, Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Primary Health Care Board, for facilitating smooth field operations.
In addition, he acknowledged the Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Shehu Hashimi II Ibn Umar El-Kanemi, along with local communities, for their trust and active participation in the research process.