On 9 June 2026, the GS-Foundation officially handed over a newly renovated and equipped Gender Laboratory (Gender Lab) to the Plateau State Police Command in Jos, Nigeria. The facility, located within the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) block at the Command Headquarters, was established under the Supporting Police Accountability and Transformation (SPAAT) Project.
The handover was conducted by GS-Foundation representatives Peter Heepen and ThankGod Umaje and received by the Commissioner of Police, CP Bassey Ewah.
A Collaborative Initiative for Improved Police Services
The Gender Lab was developed through a partnership between the GS-Foundation and the Nigeria Police Force Gender Unit. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the police response to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and to enhance the quality of support provided to survivors.
Among those present at the handover ceremony were DCP Rita Oyentare Emesim-Oki, Deputy Commissioner of Police and head of the Force Gender Unit; DCP Jephthah Userd, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations; ASP Joy Anyangba, Command Gender Desk Officer; members of the State Gender Unit; and other stakeholders.
Enhancing Capacity and Survivor-Centred Support
The Gender Lab has been designed to improve the capacity of Gender Desk Officers by providing a dedicated space and the necessary equipment for effective case management, evidence documentation, and survivor-centred services.
By strengthening investigative processes and improving documentation practices, the facility will contribute to more effective handling of SGBV cases and support efforts to ensure that survivors receive appropriate care and access to justice.
Commitment from the Plateau State Police Command
During the handover ceremony, Commissioner of Police CP Bassey Ewah commended the initiative and expressed the Command’s commitment to making full use of the facility.
He emphasised the importance of strengthening institutional mechanisms for addressing sexual and gender-based violence and pledged continued support for measures that improve the investigation and prosecution of such cases.
Promoting Gender-Responsive Policing
The establishment of the Gender Lab represents an important step towards more gender-responsive policing in Plateau State. By providing specialised infrastructure and resources, the facility is expected to improve service delivery, enhance accountability, and strengthen protection mechanisms for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
Through initiatives such as the SPAAT Project, the GS-Foundation remains committed to supporting police reform, accountability, and improved access to justice for vulnerable groups and communities across Nigeria.
Looking Ahead
The GS-Foundation looks forward to seeing the positive impact of the Gender Lab in supporting survivors, strengthening investigations, and contributing to safer communities throughout Plateau State.
