The Police Service Commission (PSC) has announced plans to adopt forensic and DNA science as part of its strategy to build a more effective and modern police force for Nigeria.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the delegation from the Centre for Forensic Programmes and DNA Studies (CEFPADS) of the University of Benin, the PSC Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), mni, said embracing these scientific applications is vital in addressing the increasingly sophisticated nature of crime.
The meeting held on Monday, June 16, 2025, at the PSC headquarters in Abuja, focused on the relevance of DNA and forensic studies in criminal investigations and the broader justice system.
“At this juncture, since crime has gone scientific and transnational, there is a compelling need to embrace forensic and DNA studies,” Argungu said.
“This knowledge will not only support criminal investigations but also assist the Commission in its oversight responsibilities.”
DIG Argungu directed the Commission’s Directors of Human Resources Management and Legal Services to initiate discussions with the University of Benin for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at establishing a long-term partnership—one that will also benefit the Nigeria Police Force.
He added that forensic knowledge is not only key to effective policing but is also applicable across professions and critical for informed policy development.
The University of Benin team was led by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Christopher Osunbor, and included Prof. Eddy Ehikhamenor, Director of the Forensics and DNA Centre; Dr. Benedicta Ehanire, Deputy Registrar and Head of Public Relations; and Mr. Lucky Ikhalo, Deputy Registrar and Head of the University’s Abuja Liaison Office.
In his remarks, Prof. Osunbor emphasized the critical role forensic science plays in modern-day law enforcement and criminal justice.
“Our programmes are tailored to support the kind of high-stakes work carried out by security agencies,” he said.
“We are ready to offer services and capacity-building initiatives that align with the mandate of the PSC and the Police.”
Prof. Ehikhamenor, giving an overview of the Centre’s operations, said CEFPADS was established through a public-private partnership (PPP) to create a sustainable, strike-free molecular lab environment, capable of serving both the public and law enforcement.
He noted that the Centre is designed to:
* Develop a national DNA database for crime and research,
* Support mass casualty identification,
* Provide pathogen screening during epidemics or pandemics,
* Offer forensic screening for drugs and alcohol during investigations,
* And introduce structured academic programmes and certification at diploma to postdoctoral levels.
The Centre also aims to annually offer 12 to 20 slots for police officers to undergo postgraduate studies in forensic science, depending on police budget and readiness.
In his closing remarks, the PSC Chairman reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to collaborate fully, stressing that science-based policing is no longer a luxury but a necessity in building a new Police Force for a new Nigeria.