DNA Learning Center Welcomes NUC Delegation, Showcases State-of-the-Art Forensics Facility

On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, the DNA Learning Center Nigeria, Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, hosted a high-profile delegation from the National Universities Commission (NUC), Abuja, led by Chief Academic Planning Officer, Mr. Jude Akubue. The visit provided an opportunity to tour the nearly completed Center for DNA Forensics and Criminal Investigation (CEDFOCI), a gamechanger facility poised to revolutionize forensic science, criminal investigations, and paternity testing in Nigeria.

The NUC delegation, accompanied by members of the Faculty of Communication and Information Technology, Godfrey Okoye University led by its Dean, Prof. Ifeyinwa Ajah, was warmly received by the Deputy Director of the DNA Learning Center, Mr. Michael Okoro and Lab Manager for CEDFOCI, Victor Abaa on behalf of the Director. The team toured the advanced facility, which is set to become a game-changer in Nigeria’s scientific and technological landscape.

DSC_0330 DNA Learning Center Welcomes NUC Delegation, Showcases State-of-the-Art Forensics Facility

A Vision for Innovation and Practical Learning

The CEDFOCI is designed to serve as a multifaceted hub, housing not only forensic and DNA analysis capabilities but also an Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics hub amongst others. The center aligns with Godfrey Okoye University’s broader vision of fostering science and technology development in Nigeria and beyond. The facility is expected to provide students and researchers with hands-on experience, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Speaking during the tour, Mr. Jude Akubue expressed satisfaction with the progress of the facility, noting its potential to transform educational and professional outcomes in the sciences. “Normally, we expect facilities to be fully completed before programs commence,” Akubue remarked. “However, the passion and zeal of the Deputy Director, Mr. Michael Okoro, demonstrate that he knows what he is doing. 

We are impressed that, when completed, this center will provide students with not just theoretical knowledge but also practical expertise.”

Akubue emphasized the NUC’s commitment to ensuring that students gain practical skills to complement their academic training. He lauded the center’s potential to produce graduates who are well-equipped to address real-world challenges, stating, “The vision of the NUC is that students become abreast with the practical aspects of their studies. We are confident that students will fully benefit from this facility.”

DSC_0415 DNA Learning Center Welcomes NUC Delegation, Showcases State-of-the-Art Forensics Facility

A Call for Security and Partnerships

Given the sensitive nature of forensic and DNA-related work, Akubue underscored the need for robust security measures at the center. “The sensitivity of this facility demands high-level security to protect its operations and data,” he noted. He also encouraged the university to forge strategic partnerships to enhance the center’s research capabilities, adding, “The university is supposed to be a center of research, and the products of this center should contribute meaningfully to society.”

A Milestone for Nigeria’s STEM Ecosystem

In his response, Deputy Director Michael Okoro announced that the Center for DNA Forensics and Criminal Investigation is on track to become fully operational by October 2025, when it will open its doors to the public. He expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor of Godfrey Okoye University, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke as well as the Director, Prof. George Ude  for thier foresight and visionary leadership, which have been instrumental in bringing the project to fruition.

Okoro reiterated the center’s commitment to promoting scientific development and nurturing the next generation of change-makers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) across Nigeria and Africa. “We are dedicated to making the best use of every resource available to this center,” he said. “Our goal is to drive innovation and produce graduates who will lead transformative change in the world of STEM.”

A Bright Future for Forensics and Innovation

The visit by the NUC delegation marks a significant milestone for Godfrey Okoye University and the DNA Learning Center Nigeria. The CEDFOCI is poised to become a cornerstone of forensic science and technological advancement in Nigeria, offering cutting-edge solutions for criminal investigations, paternity testing, and broader scientific research. 

With its AI and Robotics hub, the center is also set to position Nigeria as a leader in emerging technologies.

As the facility nears completion, stakeholders are optimistic about its potential to reshape the landscape of STEM education and research in Nigeria. 

The collaboration between Godfrey Okoye University’s Faculty of Communication and Information Technology and the DNA Learning Center Nigeria exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to addressing societal challenges through innovation and education.

The university and its partners look forward to the official opening of the CEDFOCI in October, which promises to herald a new era of scientific excellence and societal impact in Nigeria.

Share this content:

DNALC Nigeria News, an extension of dnalcnigeria.org, is dedicated to sharing stories that advance the mission of the DNA Learning Center Nigeria in science education and research. It highlights innovative programs, research breakthroughs, and partnerships in molecular biology, genetics, and forensic science. Through compelling narratives, it inspires scientific excellence and literacy across Nigeria and Africa.

Post Comment