By, Olawale Ogunbusola

Forensic science and criminal justice in Nigeria .
In both Canada and Nigeria, the evolution of criminal justice is defined by a common goal: moving from a system reliant on subjective testimony to one grounded in objective, scientific truth.

Just as Canadian forensic experts had to fundamentally overhaul their techniques to adapt to new polymer banknotes, Nigeria is currently undergoing a vital transition to modernize its investigative infrastructure.

For years, the Nigerian justice system leaned heavily on eyewitness accounts and confessions—methods prone to human error and intimidation. This placed the traumatic burden of “proving” trauma squarely on the shoulders of victims.

Today, that narrative is shifting. Through collaborations like the Canada–Nigeria Justice Cooperation Project, forensic science is emerging as the “silent witness.”

By utilizing DNA analysis and ballistic evidence, the system is reducing the need for victims to relive their trauma under repeated cross-examination. Initiatives like the Mirabel Centre further demonstrate this victim-centred approach by integrating forensic collection with immediate medical, psychological, and legal support.
However, “science is slow.” Much like the behind-the-scenes work required to adapt to new technologies in Canada, Nigeria faces its own challenges:

Infrastructure: Expanding access to modern labs to reduce court delays.

Legislative Reform: Closing gaps in forensic regulations to ensure admissibility.

Capacity Building: Cross-training police and the judiciary to interpret scientific evidence accurately.

The path forward is clear: we must institutionalize the “Science of Justice” as a standard.

This is not merely about equipment; it is about human rights. By professionalizing these protocols, we are creating a system where the evidence speaks for itself, ensuring that victims are no longer forced to carry the entire weight of the trial alone.

Together, we are building a more credible, efficient, and compassionate justice system.

Dr. Yusuf Oladele Surajudeen, JP is a Legal Security Consultant & Forensic Expert, Oyo State.