Global forensic summit ends with celebration of culture, collaborations

Environmental Consultant, Department of Botany, University of Lagos (UNILAG); Emeritus, Prof Dele Olowokudejo(left); Associate Prof of Forensic Biology, Department of Cell Biology & Genetics, UNILAG, Dr Onyekachi Ogbonnaya Iroanya; Member International Academy of Forensics (IAF) Mrs Moriliat Ganiyu; Managing Director, IAF, Dr Damilola Fagboro; representative of the Lagos State Governor and Permanent Secretary Lagos State Citizens Mediation Bureau (CMB); Aderinsola Olanrewaju; representative of Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Oluwatoyin Ipaye; Director of 2026 Global Forensics Summit, Caroline Ndubuisi; President Association of Forensic Sciences and Expert witness in Nigeria, Prof Abiodun Osiyemi; President Customary Court, Lagos State, Oluwatoyin Ajayi; Guest Speaker, Justice Alaba Omolaye-Ajileye (rtd); Member IAF, Shola Ogunleye and Steve Obum Orajiaku during the 2026 International Academy of Forensics Summit in Collaboration with The Guardian Newspaper held at University of Lagos yesterday. PHOTO: AYODELE ADENIRAN

The 2026 Global Forensic Summit drew to a colourful close with a grand gala night celebrating cultural diversity, professional excellence and international collaboration in the administration of justice.

The event, hosted by the International Academy of Forensics in collaboration with The Guardian Newspaper, Nigeria, marked the culmination of four days of intensive discussions, knowledge exchange and strategic engagements among experts in forensic science, law enforcement and criminal justice.

Welcoming participants to the event, Dr Caroline Ndubuisi, who is the chair of the 2026 summit as well as the Founder and Managing Director of International Forensics, and Dr Damilola Fagboro, described the gala as a celebration of achievements recorded during the summit and a platform to deepen partnerships across sectors and nations.

They noted that deliberations throughout the summit had focused on advancing forensic investigation, strengthening criminal intelligence and improving justice systems in the face of rapid technological change.

The organisers commended participants, partners and sponsors for their contributions, stating that their support had played a critical role in promoting excellence, knowledge sharing and innovation within the forensic community.

The gala night featured vibrant cultural performances showcasing the richness and diversity of global heritage, reinforcing the summit’s message that despite differences in background and geography, participants are united by shared values of integrity, peace and human dignity.

Guests were encouraged to use the relaxed atmosphere of the evening to build stronger professional relationships, with organisers expressing optimism that conversations initiated at the summit would translate into lasting collaborations and impactful reforms in justice systems worldwide.