The Director-General, Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Professor John Obafunwa, has highlighted the crucial role of academia and professionals in building robust forensic science infrastructure in emerging economies.
Delivering the keynote address at the 6th Annual Forensic Conference of the Society for Forensic and Analytical Scientists (SFSAN), held in collaboration with the Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Obafunwa stressed the transformative potential of forensic science in justice and societal development.
The hybrid event which held on Tuesday, December 2, 2024, at the Faculty of Science Boardroom, UNILAG, drew a diverse audience of forensic experts, academics, and students.
Centered on the theme “Advancing & Strengthening Forensic Science in Developing Nations: The Role of Academia and Practitioners,” the conference aimed to address challenges and chart a course for progress in forensic science across developing nations.
In his address, Professor Obafunwa identified critical hurdles, including inadequate funding, limited access to advanced technology, and policy deficiencies, which hinder the growth of forensic science in developing nations.
His words “Forensic science is not just about solving crimes; it is a cornerstone for ensuring justice, accountability, and societal development”. He emphasized the need for synergy between academia and practitioners to build capacity and overcome challenges
The former Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU) also highlighted the importance of collaborative research and interdisciplinary engagement to enhance the credibility and effectiveness of forensic science. He urged universities to take the lead by equipping students with practical skills, fostering innovation through advanced training, and developing specialized programmes and research initiatives.
Earlier, in her welcome remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, represented by the Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor Olayinka Asekun, emphasized the critical need for ethical practices in forensic science. She cautioned against compromises that could undermine the credibility of investigations and urged young forensic scientists to adopt innovation and integrity as their guiding principles.
The opening ceremony also featured goodwill messages from Heads of Departments within the Faculty of Science, who commended the collaboration between academia and industry as essential in fostering growth in forensic science. They praised the conference’s agenda for addressing pressing issues and showcasing the potential of research and education to advance forensic practice in Nigeria and beyond.
Participants expressed enthusiasm for the conference, which includes expert-led workshops, panel discussions, and exhibitions of cutting-edge forensic tools and techniques. The two-day event promises to deliver actionable insights aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by forensic professionals in developing nations.
The conference continues with robust engagements designed to inspire a new era of forensic excellence and position forensic science as a pivotal element of justice and development in emerging economies.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Bolutife Adeniran
