The Rivers State Police Command, in collaboration with the GS-Foundation, has officially opened the new state-of-the-art “Gender Lab” at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The official opening ceremony took place on 11 May 2026 and marks an important milestone in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Nigeria.
The establishment of the Gender Lab represents an innovative approach that combines modern technology, professional investigative work and victim-centred support. The aim is to bring about a lasting improvement in the investigation and prosecution of gender-based violence and to provide those affected with safe access to support and justice.
Visionary initiative for greater justice
During the opening ceremony, representatives from the police and the GS-Foundation paid particular tribute to the visionary initiative of DCP Dr Rita Oki Emesim Oyintare, whose commitment played a key role in bringing the project to fruition.
ACP Rachel Opadola from the Gender/Human Trafficking Unit of the Rivers State Command emphasised the importance of the Gender Lab as a future centre for research, data collection and capacity building in addressing sexual and gender-based violence. In the long term, the facility is intended to help strengthen institutional structures and create sustainable solutions for the protection of vulnerable groups.
Technology-assisted investigations and victim-centred support
The new Gender Lab combines modern forensic technologies with confidential counselling and support services for those affected. The facility includes, amongst other things, digital systems for evidence preservation, safe spaces for psychosocial care, and coordinated legal support services.
Peter Heepen, a representative of the GS-Foundation, described the Gender Lab as “a beacon of hope, protection and justice for survivors of gender-based violence.” He emphasised that the collaboration between the GS-Foundation and the Rivers State Police Command aims to empower victims and consistently hold perpetrators to account through professional, technology-assisted investigations.
A strong signal for modern, human rights-oriented policing
The Commissioner of Police of the Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, also highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships and innovative policing. He praised the support of international partner organisations and emphasised that the Gender Lab is in line with the vision of modern, human rights-oriented and technology-supported policing.
He also paid tribute to the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, whose focus on professionalism, accountability and improved policing services is making a significant contribution to the further development of security structures in Nigeria.
Tasks and objectives of the Gender Lab
The Gender Lab will serve as a specialised centre for advanced forensic evidence collection and documentation. At the same time, it will provide psychosocial support and counselling services for victims. Furthermore, the facility will be used for the training and further education of police officers in the field of gender-sensitive investigations.
Another focus is on data-driven analysis of gender-based violence. Through the systematic collection and evaluation of relevant data, prevention measures are to be improved and investigative procedures made more effective.
Working together for a safer society
With the official opening of the Gender Lab, the GS-Foundation and the Rivers State Police Command are sending a strong signal of innovation, cooperation and social responsibility.
The project exemplifies the importance of international partnerships in the fight for human rights, the protection of vulnerable groups and the building of safe communities. At the same time, it underlines the shared determination to effectively combat sexual and gender-based violence and to ensure that those affected have access to protection, support and justice.
