Dementia Research: Yobe Varsity Collects 1,200 Samples

The Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu has collected 1,200 samples of blood, Biospy and vitals to produce stem cells for its ongoing dementia Research Project. The Director of the Centre, Dr. Mahmoud Bukar Maina, stated this to newsmen at the collection centre in Damaturu, Yobe State capital, saying the research […]

The Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu has collected 1,200 samples of blood, Biospy and vitals to produce stem cells for its ongoing dementia Research Project.

The Director of the Centre, Dr. Mahmoud Bukar Maina, stated this to newsmen at the collection centre in Damaturu, Yobe State capital, saying the research findings will address multiple health burdens affecting the people of Yobe and the Northeast region.

He said the Dementia Project was funded by Wellcome Trust and supported by Yobe State Government, which will not only help the state to understand and address dementia in Africa, but also provide valuable health insights far beyond the single condition.

‘‘From the day we have started this project our team have so far collected 1,200 samples to assess other key health parameters — including diabetes, cardiovascular health, and infectious pathogens.

‘‘This integrated approach means the knowledge and resources generated from this project will directly feed into other research initiatives we run, for example, we are going to generate stem cells, such as our Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Origin Project and future public health studies.

‘‘By combining efforts across projects, we are maximizing impact — building research capacity, improving diagnosis, and strengthening healthcare delivery for multiple health challenges faced in our state Yobe and the region.

“This milestone is not just about dementia — it’s about placing Yobe on the global map of biomedical research. By combining community engagement, world-class science, and partnerships across Nigeria, the UK, USA, The Netherlands, and other African countries, we are building the foundation for discoveries that will benefit our people and contribute to global health.” Prof. Maina stated.

The project leader, Dr. Mahmoud Bukar Maina, emphasizes that the research findings will help detect diseases earlier, improve treatments and ultimately save lives. By combining community engagement, world-class science and international partnerships, the project aims to place Yobe on the global map of biomedical research.