The Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre at Yobe State University, Damaturu, has made significant progress in its ongoing Dementia Research Project, collecting 1,100 biopsies and blood samples. According to a statement by the university’s Information Officer, Abdulmunini Gulani, this milestone marks a crucial step forward in understanding and addressing dementia, a generic term for diseases that impair memory, thinking, and daily activities, as defined by the World Health Organization.
Dementia is a significant global health concern, ranking as the seventh leading cause of death worldwide and a major cause of disability and dependency among older people. The research project, led by Prof. Mahmoud Maina, aims to feed Africa’s first open-access Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell biobank, making it the first large-scale dementia cohort study of its kind in Northern Nigeria.
The collected samples will not only contribute to dementia research but also be screened for other health issues such as diabetes, malaria, and kidney diseases. This integrated approach is designed to address multiple health burdens affecting the people of Yobe and the wider region. By combining community engagement, world-class scientists, and international partnerships, the project seeks to build a foundation for discoveries that will benefit local communities and contribute to global health.
The success of this project is attributed to the support of Governor Mai Mala Buni, who approved the use of primary health care centers in Damaturu as research hubs. The Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Shehu Hashimi II Ibn Umar El-Kanemi, and Yobe communities have also been praised for their participation and trust in the research. The project’s progress is a testament to the potential for cutting-edge science to be conducted in Yobe, with the ultimate goal of detecting diseases earlier, improving treatments, and saving lives.
The research undertaking is part of a broader effort to place Yobe on the global map of biomedical research, demonstrating that high-quality science can be achieved through collaboration and community engagement. As the project moves forward, it is expected to yield valuable insights into dementia and other health issues, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes for the people of Yobe and beyond.
