NBRDA, OFAB Rally Health Officials on Agricultural Biotechnology, GM to boost food security, public health
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to deploying safe, science-driven biotechnology to strengthen Nigeria’s food security and improve public health. This was highlighted during a recent sensitization workshop on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and their products in Abuja.
The workshop, hosted by the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) and the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB), brought together policymakers, scientists, regulators, and development partners to deepen understanding of biotechnology innovations as well as their implications for food safety, nutrition, and public health.
Mr. John Atanda, National Coordinator of the Food Safety and Quality Programme, speaking on behalf of Pharmacist Olubunmi Aribeana, Director, Food and Drug Services Department of the Health Ministry, affirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to rigorous risk assessments for every GMO product. These assessments will include evaluations of allergenicity, nutritional composition, long-term health impacts, and environmental considerations, ensuring a cautious and informed approach to GMO regulation.
“In doing so, we intend to mitigate potential risks and to engender the transparency our consumers rightfully expect.
“By working together, we can transform perceptions about biotechnology and ensure innovations like GMOs contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s food security and nutritional advancement,” Atanda said. “With robust regulations in place, including labelling and traceability protocols, we aim to reinforce public trust and transparency”.
In his keynote address, Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, Director-General of NBRDA, highlighted tangible benefits already recorded by Nigerian farmers through biotechnology adoption, citing yield increases of over 50 percent in TELA maize pilot projects, reduced pesticide use in Bt cowpea cultivation, and improved cotton yields.
“These results are not theoretical; they represent real harvests and real gains for farming households,” Mustapha said. “Biotechnology, when responsibly governed, is a powerful ally in our national vision for food security, healthier communities, and economic revival under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”
The Director-General emphasized the importance of risk communication, urging journalists and policymakers to focus on data, context, and transparency to combat misinformation around biotechnology.
The sensitization workshop, held at Johnwood Hotel, Abuja, is expected to strengthen the capacity of FMOH&SW directorate officers to engage in evidence-based policymaking and public advocacy on biotechnology and food safety.
In a statement by Alaba Balogun, the Ministry’s Head, Information and Public Relations, to further dispel misconceptions surrounding GMO and it’s products; three in-depth presentations were delivered by leading experts, including:
“Biotechnology as a Tool to Address Low Productivity and Emerging Challenges” by Prof. Muhammad L. Umar, Department of Plant Science, Institute for Agricultural Research;
“GMO Debate: Science Perspective and Why the Opposition to GMOs” by Prof. Emmanuel Hala Kwon-Ndung, Professor of Plant Genetics and Breeding, Federal University of Lafia;
“The Science of Agricultural Biotechnology” by Dr. Rose Gidado, Director, Agricultural Biotechnology Department, NBRDA.
