Advancing Forensic Fire Scene Investigation Science: Development of a Nigerian Fire Pattern Reference Database

Fire investigation science relies on reference data describing the physical and chemical characteristics of fire patterns under defined fuel, building material, and ventilation conditions. The absence of Nigerian-specific reference data forces investigators to apply international datasets derived from temperate-zone building materials and construction practices that differ significantly from Nigerian construction norms. This doctoral study makes an original scientific contribution by developing the first Nigeria Fire Pattern Reference Database, characterising fire behaviour and physical evidence signatures under controlled experimental conditions using Nigerian construction materials and architectural configurations. A multi-phase experimental design was employed, conducting seventy-four controlled burn experiments in purpose-built fire research cells using sandcrete block, corrugated iron sheet, timber frame, and PVC components representative of residential construction across Nigerian geopolitical zones. Fire patterns, char depth gradients, smoke deposit signatures, and structural collapse sequences were systematically documented under varying ventilation, ignition source, and accelerant conditions. Multivariate statistical models were developed relating observed pattern characteristics to ignition source and fire development variables. The Database characterises 420 distinct fire pattern scenarios with validated predictive accuracy for origin determination of eighty-six percent in blind validation experiments. Comparison against six cases with known origin points demonstrates significantly improved investigator accuracy when using the Database versus standard international references. Original contributions include the Database itself, the experimental protocol for tropical construction fire research, and a Nigerian fire investigation decision tree tool. Recommendations include national adoption of the Database by the Nigeria Fire Service and police forensic units. Keywords: fire investigation, fire pattern, Nigeria, reference database, arson forensics.