The Nigeria Police, Rivers State Command, in partnership with the GS Foundation, has unveiled an ultra-modern “Gender Lab” aimed at strengthening the fight against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the state.
This is contained in a statement released on Wednesday May 13, 2026 by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing.
The facility, located within the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Port Harcourt, is designed to transform the investigation and prosecution of gender-related offences through the deployment of advanced technology and victim-centered services.
Described as a major breakthrough, the Gender Lab integrates cutting-edge forensic tools, confidential counseling spaces, digital evidence management systems, and coordinated legal support services to enhance justice delivery while ensuring the protection and dignity of victims.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, the representative of GS Foundation, Peter Heepen, described the initiative as a transformative step toward improving institutional responses to domestic violence, abuse, and exploitation.
“The Gender Lab is not just a facility; it is a beacon of hope, protection, and justice for survivors. Through this collaboration we are building a safer society where victims are empowered to speak up and offenders are held accountable through professional and technology-based investigations,” he stated.
Also speaking, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, commended the initiative and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable persons and strengthening investigative processes through innovation and partnerships.
He further praised the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, for promoting modern, intelligence-led policing across the country.
According to him, the establishment of the Gender Lab aligns with the Force’s focus on professionalism, accountability, human rights protection, and improved service delivery.
CP Adepoju also expressed appreciation to international partners and supporting organisations for their technical contributions, describing the project as a significant milestone in enhancing community safety and justice reform in Rivers State.
The Gender Lab will function as a specialised centre for advanced forensic evidence collection and preservation, provision of psychosocial support services for victims, training of officers on gender-sensitive investigations, and data-driven analysis of gender-related crimes to strengthen preventive policing.
The launch marks what stakeholders describe as a historic turning point in addressing gender-based violence and positions the Rivers State Police Command at the forefront of technology-driven and compassionate policing in Nigeria.