The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) held a workshop on Tuesday in Keffi, Nasarawa State to address concerns about GMO consumption and regulation in Nigeria.. 

The event brought together students, academics, farmers and civil society organisations focused on public education about biotechnology and biosafety. 

Organisers stated that it was to clarify misinformation and provide verified information on GMO use in agriculture.

The Director-General of NBMA, Mr Bello Bawa Bwari, said the issue of GMO regulation in Nigeria remains controversial. 

He mentioned that the agency organised the event to correct misinformation and provide accurate sources of information. 

Bwari was represented by Mrs Scholastica Bello, Director of Planning and Statistics at NBMA.

He stated that biosafety plays a role in achieving national food security goals. 

He noted that President Bola Tinubu has prioritised food security and added that proper biosafety regulation supports agricultural productivity.

Mrs Hauwa Ahmed, Head of Biosafety Operations and Enforcement at NBMA, explained that the workshop provided information on biotechnology techniques and biosafety regulations. 

She also mentioned that the  biotechnology cannot operate effectively without regulatory oversight.

Ahmed stated that the participants were informed about the safety standards guiding biotechnology use in Nigeria. 

She added that scientists and stakeholders were guided on the responsible application of modern biotechnology in agriculture.

A local farmer, Mr Emmanuel Ogienomoh, said he cultivates pod borer-resistant (PT) cowpeas in Nasarawa State. 

He added that the crop is insect-resistant and produces higher yields compared to conventional varieties.

The workshop forms part of ongoing efforts by NBMA and AATF to improve public understanding of GMO crops, biosafety regulation and their role in Nigeria’s agricultural development.

Source: NAN