How Nigeria’s first DNA forensic Laboratory would make living in Lagos more peaceful and suitable

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The Lagos State Government has completed the construction of the first high-level DNA Forensic Laboratory in Nigeria.

The centre upon commencement of operation would be the only functional DNA forensic lab in the country.

Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, the Governor of Lagos had hinted last year about constructing a DNA Forensic Lab as part of the state’s Criminal Justice reforms.

“The DNA forensic centre just opened this month. We are yet to commission it but it has been opened and it is a DNA crime forensic lab and at the same time, it is going to deal with other DNA matters like the paternity issue. What we are doing now is skeletal work which we started this month,” said the Commissioner of Justice in the state, Mr Adeniji Kazeem.

Lagos has the highest crime rate in Nigeria, and it is one of the main issue this centre will help in curtailing its number.Lagos has the highest crime rate in Nigeria, and it is one of the main issue this centre will help in curtailing its number. (David Jenkins)

This centre is expected to impact on economic and crime in the state.

Lagos is the commercial centre and economic hub of Nigeria and the West Africa region. As result, there is a high rate of crime in the city, just like many cities of Lagos status across the globe.

With this centre, quality of lives of Nigerians and Expatriates living in the city would improve.

There will be an end to the era of unknown assailants and criminals in the state. Criminals can now be identified and tracked using equipment provided by the centre. Thus, reducing the crime rate and attracting investors and tourists to the state.

This would also help residents to explore their ability to live full and creative lives. As a result leading to the creation of employment and wealth opportunities for the state.

Another benefit of the centre would be in the regeneration of urban areas. The skeletal 24 hours city status would be fully activated.

This would impact on the real estate market in the state, as investments are usually sited in a region with low criminal activities and stable business environment.

Inter-regional income flow to the state will also be high as the centre offers a one-stop shop for all forensics activities in Nigeria.

Source