Biotech agency trains scientists on forensic analysis instrumentation

The National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) has started a training programme for its scientists on forensic analysis instrument setup and usage.

The training in Abuja is geared toward building the capacity of scientists to use rapid DNA analysis instrument to determine biological relationships and how to apply it for forensic purposes.

DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid is the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms. It is acid molecule that carries the genetic instructions used in the growth, development, functioning and reproduction of all known living things.

Prof. Lucy Ogbadu, the Director-General, NABDA, who spoke at the commencement of the training on Wednesday, said that the objective was to equip the scientists in the agency with skills to enable them determine the difference between forensic analysis and research.

Ogbadu said that the training would serve as a way of rendering service to the nation as samples of species of humans and even animals could be taken by the machine.

She said that the issue of taking samples outside the country and getting the correct results would no longer be in question.

“The forensic equipment is one of its kinds in the country and will help scientists to help law enforcement agents to solve crimes quickly because it has all it takes to do that using the DNA analysis of everyone at a crime scene.

“So I expect that my staff will give it all it takes and learn as much as possible from the specialists that are here to educate them on its application so that we can make utmost use of it,’’ she said.

Dr Richard Somairi, the President, Chief Scientific Officer, Integrated Technologies and Services International (ITSI), U.S., who is one of the resource persons, said that the equipment would give answers to societal questions.

He said that with the help of the equipment and the skills acquired, NABDA should be able to determine the biological relationships that could solve societal problems.

“In cases of mass disasters where there are no facial features and serious mutilations, you can use DNA to ascertain people that are involved.

“So NABDA should establish standards to show that things developed in Nigeria are of the same standard internationally, so forensic research can now be done locally.

“I therefore urge the scientists that will undergo this training to utilise the knowledge they acquire here for the progress of the agency and the country,’’ he said.