By Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The Yobe State Government has intensified efforts to establish the Yobe Institute for Biomedical Engineering Technology (YIBET), a specialised institution designed to become a centre of excellence for biomedical engineering education, research and innovation in Nigeria and beyond.
The move marks another milestone in the state government’s drive to strengthen healthcare delivery through advanced medical technology and human capital development.
The Steering Committee on the establishment of the institute, inaugurated by Governor Mai Mala Buni, held a strategic meeting at the Senate Building of Yobe State University (YSU) in Damaturu to review progress and outline practical steps for the successful take-off of the institution.
Chairman of the committee, Professor Bello Kawuwa, described the proposed institute as a landmark initiative that would transform biomedical engineering education and healthcare technology in Yobe State.
He recalled the state’s early efforts to institutionalise biomedical engineering services within its healthcare system, noting that the establishment of YIBET represents the fulfilment of a long-held vision driven by strategic planning and collaboration.
Professor Kawuwa said the institute would produce highly skilled biomedical engineers, promote research and innovation, enhance the maintenance and development of modern medical equipment, and improve healthcare services across Yobe State and Nigeria.
He spoke after a presentation by a representative of the Society of Biomedical Engineers in Yobe State, who highlighted the critical role biomedical engineering plays in modern healthcare, particularly in the installation, maintenance and sustainability of sophisticated medical equipment.
The committee also received technical presentations from its consultant, Dr. Abdulkareem Karasuwa, who unveiled the proposed institutional framework, academic structure, teaching model and business strategy for the institute.
According to Dr. Karasuwa, YIBET is being designed in line with global best practices to ensure academic excellence, financial sustainability, industry relevance and international competitiveness.
He explained that the proposed curriculum would combine practical training, research, innovation and entrepreneurship while fostering strong partnerships with healthcare institutions and technology industries.
Committee members stressed the need to build an institution capable of earning international recognition for excellence in biomedical engineering education, cutting-edge research and professional practice.
They noted that YIBET would help bridge Nigeria’s shortage of qualified biomedical engineers while positioning Yobe State as a regional hub for medical technology development, healthcare innovation and capacity building.
The committee further observed that the institute would reduce dependence on foreign expertise for the maintenance and management of medical equipment, while creating opportunities for research, employment, industrial partnerships and technological advancement.
The meeting was attended by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Hajiya Hadiza Sabo; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Alhaji Bukar Kilo; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget; Chief Medical Director of Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, Professor Baba Waru Goni; Chief Medical Director of Yobe Specialist Hospital, Dr. Usman Abba; Director of Engineering Services, Ministry of Housing, Engr. Babagana; Engr. Abdulmalik Mohammed; and other members of the steering committee.
