Bridging the Forensic Gap Nigeria s Urgent Need for Awareness in Criminal Investigations

Introduction

In the evolving landscape of crime and justice, forensic science stands as a pillar of objectivity and truth. Yet, a recent study conducted in Nigeria highlights a striking knowledge gap among those most involved in the justice process law enforcement and judiciary professionals. This research explores how limited awareness is hampering the effective integration of forensics into criminal investigations, with urgent implications for national security and justice delivery.

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Study Overview: A Snapshot of Nigeria’s Forensic Awareness Crisis

The study utilized a descriptive survey method, sampling 100 individuals from Nigeria’s judiciary and police force. The results paint a clear picture of the current forensic landscape:

• 68% of participants were male, and 55% were over 40 years of age.
• 75% held a bachelor’s degree, indicating a relatively educated sample group.
• Despite their professional background, over 56% had no knowledge of forensic science.
• A mere 15% were aware that forensic evidence is legally admissible in Nigerian courts.
• Most participants were uncertain about the practical application of forensics in crime reduction.

A detailed analysis can be found in our main journal article journal.jfsr.1001028.

Why Forensic Science Matters in Modern Nigeria

Forensic science is no longer an auxiliary tool; it has become central to the administration of justice. It aids in:

• Crime scene reconstruction
• DNA profiling and fingerprint analysis
• Providing irrefutable evidence that holds up in court

However, traditional investigative methods still dominate criminal inquiries in Nigeria, leading to prolonged trials and unresolved cases.

The American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) underscores the role of continuing education and inter-agency collaboration in strengthening national forensic capabilities principles that Nigeria can adopt to bolster its justice system.

Policy Implications and Educational Reform

The authors advocate for strategic collaborations between:

• Nigerian Police Force and universities offering forensic science programs
• Judicial bodies and forensic experts to institutionalize the use of scientific evidence

To facilitate this, a national forensic council should be established to oversee training, standardization, and legislative integration of forensic methodologies.

Furthermore, global models like South Africa’s National Forensic DNA Database demonstrate how African countries can elevate crime-solving capabilities through systematic forensic implementation.

For more in-depth policy insights, visit https://www.forensicscijournal.com/.

Read the Full Study

Explore the complete research findings at: https://doi.org/10.29328/journal.jfsr.1001028

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