The Nigeria Police Force in Rivers State, in partnership with the GS Foundation, has unveiled a cutting-edge gender laboratory aimed at tightening the net around perpetrators of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday in Port Harcourt.
According to her, the facility, situated within the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, is expected to bolster investigations and prosecution of gender-related offences through the deployment of modern technology.
“The laboratory is equipped with advanced forensic tools, confidential counseling spaces, digital evidence management systems and coordinated legal support services,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the foundation, Mr. Peter Heepen said the partnership with the police was forged to confront the growing scourge of SGBV in Rivers State head-on.
Heepen described the project as a giant stride toward reinforcing institutional response to domestic violence and other gender-based crimes.
“The gender laboratory is not just a facility; it is a beacon of hope, protection and justice for survivors.
“Through this collaboration, we are building a safer society where victims are empowered to speak up and offenders are held accountable through professional, technology-based investigations,” he said.
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, applauded the initiative, saying it reflects the command’s resolve to shield vulnerable persons and raise the bar in criminal investigations through innovation and strategic alliances.
Adepoju also commended the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, for championing intelligence-led and technology-driven policing nationwide.
“The establishment of this gender laboratory underscores our commitment to professionalism, accountability, human rights protection and improved service delivery,” he said.
He added that the centre would function as a specialised hub for forensic evidence gathering, victim support services, capacity building, and data-driven analysis of gender-related offences, noting that development partners and supporting organisations played key roles in bringing the project to life.
