On 17th September 2025, the Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre (BioRTC), Yobe State University, had the honour of hosting a high-level delegation from the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), coordinated by the Numora Integrated Services Limited (NISL) Consortium. The visit formed part of a national exercise to assess Nigeria’s research and development capacity for drug discovery, vaccine development, and clinical trials.
The PVAC team was warmly received at BioRTC’s Temporary Premises Complex, where the program opened with a breakfast reception and a presentation led by the Deputy Directors. The presentation outlined BioRTC’s vision, inspired by Professor Mahmoud Bukar Maina, to bridge Africa’s biomedical research gap by leveraging the continent’s unique genetics and environment. It also showcased the Centre’s growing staff strength and ongoing projects in neuroscience, molecular biology, infectious diseases, microscopy, and open-hardware innovation.
Highlights of current projects include a Wellcome Trust–funded dementia study, the Yobe State kidney health assessment, and two malaria initiatives: one investigating gene deletions affecting diagnostic accuracy and another developing a low-cost diagnostic tool using the OpenFlexure microscope. Central to these efforts is BioRTC’s commitment to open access and collaboration, ensuring opportunities for students, researchers, and global partners.
During a tour of BioRTC’s laboratories and equipment, the delegation expressed strong admiration for the Centre’s level of organization and the quality of research infrastructure in place. Their subsequent checklist assessment confirmed that BioRTC met over 90% of the requirements for clinical trial and R&D readiness, including trained personnel, infrastructure, biosafety protocols, and advanced equipment.
The team also visited BioRTC’s new permanent site, supported by the Yobe State Government, where they inspected facilities and received briefings on future plans such as the establishment of a dedicated Bioinformatics Unit.
In a courtesy call to the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Yobe State, the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain delegation commended government support for BioRTC and encouraged steps toward ISO certification and registration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), affirming that the Centre is fully prepared for both. The SSG, in turn, pledged continued support, while the delegation praised BioRTC’s youthful leadership and vibrant team.
The visit concluded with a lunch in honour of the guests, who departed with words of appreciation for BioRTC’s achievements.
This visit marks an important milestone for BioRTC, further validating the Centre’s position as a national asset in biomedical research and innovation. With strong governmental backing and international recognition, BioRTC is poised to play a central role in strengthening Nigeria’s capacity for drug and vaccine development, clinical trials, and health system transformation.