Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has expressed his willingness to forge a collaboration with authorities at York University in the United Kingdom to establish a biomedical research center in Yobe State, which would be the fifth of its kind in Africa.
Governor Buni conveyed this commitment during his visit to York University. He emphasized Yobe State’s dedication to joint funding initiatives and enhancing equipment resources. Additionally, he also emphasized providing opportunities for capacity building for students, educators, healthcare professionals, and scientists. This collaborative effort aims to foster extensive research and education in healthcare services.
In an effort to boost knowledge exchange and research, Governor Buni proposed mutual visits between educators and students from the University of York and Yobe State University. This initiative aims to enhance their understanding of research with unique features specific to both the UK and Nigeria/Africa.
Funding For The Construction Of The York University Research Center In Nigeria.
Governor Buni announced that his administration had approved a contract worth N160 million. This was for the construction of the dedicated facility for the Biomedical Research and Training Center at the State University. Simultaneously, the government has undertaken the upgrade of a temporary research center site at the university. This will ensure conducive conditions for teaching and research activities.
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Governor Buni affirmed his government’s commitment to advancing healthcare services and producing the qualified workforce necessary to support healthcare facilities. He emphasized that Yobe State is fully prepared to actively partner and collaborate with York University for the Research Center. They also accounted for other partnerships involving the government, the local community, and the environment.
Governor Buni received a tour of the research center from biomedical researcher Prof. Peter O’Toole during his visit. Here, Prof. Peter O’Toole introduced the Governor to cutting-edge research equipment. The University of York has already established research centers in four African countries. They include Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, and Sudan, with prospects for further expansion.
The governor inspected state-of-the-art laboratories, featuring advanced equipment for microscopy and lithography. These laboratories facilitate the sophisticated diagnosis of diseases, including cancer cells in blood samples and various other research activities.
Governor Buni’s visit to York University was accompanied by the Secretary to the Yobe State Government, Baba Malam Wali, the Commissioner for Health, Mohammed Lawan Gana, the Registrar of Yobe State University, Kalli Yusuf Gazalli, and the Chief Medical Director of Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, Goni Baba Waru.
