The National Economic Council (NEC) Implementation Monitoring Committee has showered praises on Yobe State University (YSU), describing its Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre (BioRTC) as one of the best research facilities in Africa, while recommending it for national recognition.

The committee, led by Hon. Dr. Maina Yaumi, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Borno state, gave the commendation during a monitoring and assessment visit to the university in Damaturu, Yobe state capital.

The delegation toured the institution’s critical infrastructure, including the University Library, lecture theatres, classrooms, and the BioRTC, as part of NEC’s implementation monitoring exercise.

Speaking after the inspection, Dr. Yaumi expressed astonishment at the quality of facilities at the university, noting that the team had not anticipated such world-class infrastructure in the state.

“We’ve gone round the university and, honestly speaking, to our utmost surprise, we are really impressed. We never expected seeing what we have seen. The BioRTC is exceptional. It is one of the best not only in Nigeria but across Africa. We have not seen anything comparable in many places we have visited,” Dr. Yaumi said.

He disclosed that the committee would recommend the centre for presentation before the National Economic Council, noting that many Nigerians are unaware that such a globally competitive research facility exists in Yobe State.

“We have asked the Director of BioRTC, Prof. Mahmoud Bukar Maina, and management to prepare a proposal so that the State Governor can present it at the National Economic Council. Part of our assignment is to identify projects like this because many people do not know that such a facility exists in Yobe State,” he added.

He emphasised that increased publicity would attract international researchers, investors, and development partners willing to support scientific research.

Another committee member, Philip Mustafa Ahmed, commended the university for leveraging its comparative advantage in biomedical research, supported by knowledgeable experts and significant investment.

The NEC delegation concluded that the university had established a solid foundation for research excellence and assured management that their observations and recommendations would be presented before the National Economic Council for consideration and possible intervention.

The university was represented during the inspection by the University Librarian, Dr. Amina Makintami, on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Muhammad Bashir Tahir.

She was accompanied by the Registrar, Alhaji Isa Audu Dallari; the Bursar, Alhaji Mala Bulama Buni; the Director of Works, Bldr. Abubakar Dikko; the Director of Academic Planning, Prof. Ibrahim Umar; and the Head of the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Mohammed Musa.