A milestone moment for science in
#Nigeria
Nearly 15 years ago, when I first came to England for my MSc, I developed a conviction, that the kind of scientific ecosystem I was experiencing should also exist at home. Although I now call both the UK and Nigeria home, on Thursday, 29 January 2026, that long-held idea became a full reality with the commissioning of the
@BioRTCNig by His Excellency, Hon. (Dr.) Mai Mala Buni, Executive Governor of Yobe State.
BioRTC formally began in 2021, with support from the
#Yobe State Government and
@TReNDinAfrica, and in collaboration with Yobe State University, which initially provided a modest laboratory space within the Department of Physiology. As research expanded, equipment arrived, and global collaborations grew, His Excellency approved our relocation to a larger interim site and directed the construction of a purpose-built permanent facility, ensuring continuity, scale, and long-term impact.
The permanent BioRTC facility was constructed and furnished by the Yobe State Government — a rare and courageous investment by a sitting Governor in advanced biomedical science.
Today, BioRTC:
- houses ₦10 billion in advanced research infrastructure
- leads nationally significant research on kidney disease, malaria, and dementia
- trains scientists from Yobe State, Nigeria, and across Africa
- hosts international experts from around the world
What made this moment especially powerful was the presence of the Governor, senior government officials from State and Federal Governments, traditional institutions, international scientists, academics, and members of the public — all affirming one clear message: science belongs here.
I am deeply grateful to His Excellency and the Government of Yobe State, to Yobe State University, our global partners, the people of Yobe State, and to my family, whose quiet support sustained this journey.
BioRTC is no longer an idea. It is now an institution, and with continued stewardship, it will be a legacy for generations.