The United Kingdom, UK Government has donated state-of-the-art DNA forensic equipment to the Nigeria Police Force to strengthen criminal investigations and enhance the country’s capacity to combat crime.
The equipment was presented to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Abuja, by a UK delegation led by Professor Ukoha Ukwo under the Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) SPRING Programme.
The equipment was received on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the FCID, Abuja, AIG Ihebom Chukwuma.
The donation is part of the longstanding partnership between the UK Government and the Nigeria Police Force in criminal investigation, forensic science, capacity development and the deployment of modern technology in policing.
Speaking during the presentation, AIG Chukwuma expressed appreciation to the UK Government, FCDO and the SPRING Programme for the intervention, describing it as a significant boost to the Force’s forensic capabilities.
He said the equipment would enable the police to conduct more scientific, accurate and credible criminal investigations, particularly through improved processing and analysis of DNA evidence.
Scientifically Based Evidence
According to the police, the new equipment will support the identification of suspects and victims, establish links between individuals and crime scenes, and provide scientifically based evidence for criminal justice proceedings.
The Commissioner of Police in charge of the Forensic Section, DCP Agbo Benedict, also commended the UK Government for its continued support towards strengthening policing and the criminal justice system in Nigeria.
DCP Agbo highlighted previous support and capacity-building initiatives received from the UK, while specifically appreciating the FCDO and SPRING Programme for their contribution to the development of forensic investigation in the Nigeria Police Force.
The Nigeria Police Force said it remains committed to strengthening strategic partnerships with local and international stakeholders as part of efforts to build a modern, professional and driven police institution capable of responding effectively to emerging security challenges.
