The University of Benin (UNIBEN) has started talks with the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police to renew their agreement on forensic and DNA training for army officers. A four-man team from UNIBEN, led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Christopher Osubor, visited army officers in Abuja to discuss the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which is set to expire after five years.
Professor Osubor praised the army for trusting UNIBEN to handle such important training. He also stated that the friendly relationship between the army and the university has been strong, and the Vice Chancellor, Professor Edoba Omoregie (SAN), wishes for it to continue in this manner.
Also speaking at the meeting, Professor Eddy Ehikhamenor, Director of the Centre for Forensic and DNA Studies at UNIBEN, stated that the training helps the army establish a national database for research and crime investigations. It also prepares them for rapid forensic work, especially during emergencies such as pandemics. So far, five groups of army officers have completed the training.
The Provost Marshal of the Army Corps of Military Police, Major General Abubakar Garuba, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Brigadier General A.G. Abubakar, stated that forensic and DNA skills are highly valuable to the army. He added that those trained at UNIBEN are already applying what they learned at the Defence Headquarters. He said the army is happy with the training so far and hopes the cooperation with UNIBEN will continue. Other top military officers were also present at the meeting.
