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Yobe State University Commends Governor Mai Mala Buni on Commissioning of BioRTC Permanent Facility
Yobe State University Commends Governor Mai Mala Buni on Commissioning of BioRTC Permanent Facility
By: Kolo Gulani
The Vice-Chancellor of Yobe State University, Prof. Muhammad Bashir Tahir has expressed profound appreciation to the Executive Governor of Yobe State, His Excellency, Hon. (Dr.) Mai Mala Buni, CON, for his visionary leadership and unwavering support toward the advancement of science, research, and higher education in the state.
The commendation was made at the official commissioning of the permanent facility of the Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre (BioRTC) in Damaturu, a landmark event that further positions Yobe State as an emerging hub for advanced biomedical research in Nigeria and Africa.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor described the commissioning as far more than the opening of a physical structure, noting that it represents the consolidation of an idea that has already attained credibility, impact, and international relevance.
“BioRTC stands today as one of the most visible and globally connected research initiatives associated with Yobe State University. Its growth affirms that when vision is matched with leadership, partnership, and sustained commitment, excellence is achievable anywhere,” ~the Vice-Chancellor stated.
The Vice-Chancellor particularly applauded Governor Buni’s foresight and courage in prioritising investment in advanced scientific infrastructure, describing it as a clear demonstration of leadership that understands development as investment in people, knowledge, and institutions, rather than short-term gains.
He noted that the Governor’s commitment has extended beyond BioRTC to the wider development of Yobe State University, resulting in measurable academic outcomes. Between 2019 and 2025, the University recorded the graduation of 106 First-Class graduates across disciplines including the sciences, humanities, and management studies an achievement described as a strategic human capital asset for Yobe State and Nigeria at large.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, these achievements demonstrate that talent flourishes when opportunity is equitably provided and excellence is deliberately nurtured, regardless of geography or circumstance.
Within this broader academic progress, BioRTC was highlighted as a powerful institutional model one that is globally engaged, scientifically independent, locally relevant, and firmly anchored in public service.
The Vice-Chancellor also formally recognised Professor Mahmoud Bukar Maina, Founder and Director of BioRTC, for his scientific leadership, persistence, and commitment to capacity building in Yobe State, describing his decision to establish a centre of international calibre in Yobe as a strong vote of confidence in the University and the State.
He reaffirmed Yobe State University’s commitment to providing an enabling institutional environment that supports academic excellence, innovation, and transparent partnerships, while strengthening constructive engagement with BioRTC for the benefit of students, researchers, and the people of Yobe State.
The Vice-Chancellor concluded by congratulating the Government of Yobe State, the leadership of BioRTC, and all partners who contributed to the successful completion of the permanent facility, expressing confidence that the Centre will serve science, society, and future generations.
Yobe State University Commends Governor Mai Mala Buni on Commissioning of BioRTC Permanent Facility
News
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
The high-profile terrorism trial in Charge No. FHC/ASB/18C/2024 took a dramatic and gripping turn this week at the Federal High Court, Asaba, as explosive evidence and powerful witness testimonies continue to unfold against Mike Nwaukoni (aka “Supu”) and his alleged accomplices.
Standing trial alongside him are prominent figures including Barrister Francis Okolie, Secretary of the Ogwashi-Uku Development Association (ODA), and Mazi Elue Adigwe, the association’s Secretary-General, among others accused in connection with the violent October 12, 2023 attack on the Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku.
🔴 Doctor’s Testimony Leaves Court in Silence
In what court observers have described as one of the most chilling moments of the trial so far, Dr. Ezeike Ugochukwu Godwin took the witness stand and delivered a clinical yet deeply emotional account of the injuries sustained by a vigilante operative assigned to protect the Palace.
The doctor confirmed that the victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to the head and upper limbs, describing in precise medical terms the severity of the trauma.
According to his testimony, the victim was brought into the emergency unit in a state of intense pain and critical distress, alongside several others wounded during the attack.
Dr. Ezeike further told the court that the patient was referred from the Divisional Police Headquarters in Ogwashi-Uku, reinforcing the official chain of response following the violent incident.
🔴 Police Investigator Details Chaos and Destruction
A day earlier, on April 21, 2026, the court heard from Inspector Ijeoma Ovat, the initial Investigating Police Officer (IPO), who painted a harrowing picture of the aftermath of the attack.
She testified about the widespread chaos, multiple casualties, and destruction that followed the invasion of the Palace during the controversial Ineh Festival. Crucially, she tendered photographic evidence showing heavily damaged police and vigilante vehicles, corroborating claims of a coordinated and violent assault.
Sources within the prosecution confirm that the damage to the vehicles was extensive and consistent with armed aggression.
🔴 Witnesses Tie Defendants to Armed
AssaultEarlier testimonies in the trial have reportedly identified the defendants as active participants, alleging they were armed with guns and other dangerous weapons during the attack. Witnesses have also pointed to Mike Nwaukoni as a central figure who allegedly instigated and coordinated the operation.
🔴 Passport Request Sparks Legal Firestorm
In a fresh development that has further intensified proceedings, lead prosecutors in the case including CSP Samuel Mallum Esq and A.I Aminu Esq from the Police Legal Directorate in Abuja have strongly opposed an application by Nwaukoni’s legal team seeking the temporary release of his international passport for overseas travel.
According to sources, the prosecution argued that granting such a request poses a serious flight risk, warning that the defendant could attempt to evade justice, seek asylum, or acquire foreign citizenship.
The prosecution also suggested that the move may be a deliberate tactic to delay the trial, particularly as significant portions of the case have already been established.
The matter has been adjourned for further consideration, with hearings expected to resume in late May, continuing into early June 2026.
🔴 Calm Returns to Ogwashi-Uku Amid Trial
Meanwhile, community sources in Ogwashi-Uku report a notable return of peace and stability since the commencement of the trial. Residents have expressed hope that the judicial process will be seen through to a swift and just conclusion, bringing lasting closure to one of the most serious security incidents in the Kingdom’s recent history.
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
News
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS logistics supplier and intercepted a large quantity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed in a tricycle in Borno State.
Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 9:10 a.m. on April 21 by troops of 159 Battalion at a checkpoint within Sector 2 Area of Responsibility.

The suspect was reportedly conveying PMS concealed in 15 sacks, disguised with bags of sachet water in an attempt to evade detection.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the consignment was being transported to Kanama town and neighbouring communities around Dikwa and Bultuwa, areas believed to be within terrorist influence.
Items recovered from the suspect include a mobile phone and the sum of ₦34,950.
The sources said the suspect and recovered exhibits are in military custody for further investigation and necessary action.
They added that the interception forms part of ongoing operations aimed at disrupting terrorist logistics networks and denying them access to critical supplies across the North-East theatre.
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
News
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist infiltration into Kanama town, neutralising four insurgents during a swift response operation in Borno State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on April 22 when troops of 159 Battalion, deployed in Kanama, responded to sounds of gunfire within the town.

On arrival, the troops reportedly discovered that terrorists had infiltrated parts of the community.
The troops immediately made contact and engaged the attackers with disciplined fire, forcing them to retreat in disarray.
Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the neutralisation of four terrorists.
One member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained injuries during the encounter and has been evacuated for medical attention.

No military equipment was lost during the operation.
Items recovered from the terrorists include two torchlight mobile phones and the sum of ₦21,000.
Security sources said the general situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high.
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
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