By Stanley Iwuoha
Genetically modified foods are almost a taboo in Nigeria.
At the sight of it Nigerians cringe, look the other way as if served the last supper.
But, all that, according to the Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji is basically due to inadequate knowledge of the scientific details of genetically modified organisms, GMOs.
A genetically modified organism is an animal, plant, or microbe whose DNA has been altered using genetic engineering techniques.
It is apparently that alteration that scares Nigerians from any food or fruit that emanates from that engineering.
However, the Minister while speaking at a one day Biotechnology and Biosafety Stakeholders forum held in Abuja said that non of the modern biotechnology products in the field of agriculture had been confirmed unsafe.
He added that they were backed up with scientific and evidence -based facts before their release into the market.
He cited the instances of when cars were first introduced, like the polio vaccine, aeroplanes which have offered humanity one of the fastest ways of moving from one place to another and fertilizer, which the introduction was heralded by protest.
With the successful commercialization of BT Cotton and BT Cowpea, he said farmers across the country were already celebrating the introduction of GM Cotton and GM Cowpea.
‘‘As the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, we recognize the significance of this issue and the importance of addressing public concerns in a transparent and informed manner.’’
“Some of us in the room would remember the protest, and rejection that heralded the introduction of fertilisers, but today can any farmer achieve any meaningful harvest without the application of fertilizer.
While acknowledging the pivotal role that innovation, science and technology play in driving progress and addressing the complex challenges facing the nation, the Minister said, ‘‘GMOs represent a remarkable advancement in agricultural biotechnology, offering the potential to enhance crop yields, improve nutritional content, and mitigate the impacts of climate change on food security’’.
‘‘These two products are gradually becoming game changers for our dear farmers and giving us the hope of reviving our moribund textile industries and bridging the nation’s cowpea annual deficit’’.
As a government, he said the ministry in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment is actively engaged in supporting and promoting biosafety measures and ethical biotechnology practices to mitigate any potential risks associated with GMOs.
‘’Our position is grounded in a commitment to upholding the highest standards of modern biotech practice and promoting evidence-based decision-making. It is crucial for all stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, industry players, and the public, to engage in constructive dialogue and collaboration to address concerns and build trust in the responsible use of modern biotechnology and its products including GMOs.’’
Earlier in his remarks, the Director General of National Biotechnology Development Agency, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, said ’’the subject of GMOs has often been shrouded in misinformation, misunderstanding, fear, controversies, and concerns regarding their safety, regulation, ethical implications, and socio-economic impacts’’.
However, as stewards of scientific progress, it is the duty of scientists and researchers to bridge this gap of knowledge and foster informed discussions that pave the way for evidence-based decision-making.
He said the country is blessed with over 20 research institutes that are working on the genetic improvement of the various crops that Nigeria has comparative advantage in producing. He also said the institutions are also training a lot of manpower for the country hence the need to take advantage of government policy that had established a very viable regulatory regime to ensure that the practice of modern biotechnology does not pose danger to human, animals and the environment.
He charged participants to harness the power of collaboration, innovation, and evidence-based decision-making to navigate the complexities of biotechnology and biosafety, ensuring that their actions would be guided by scientific integrity, ethical principles, and the well-being of present and future generations.
‘’The presence of key stakeholders from these diverse sectors underscores the interdisciplinary nature of the challenges and opportunities associated with biotechnology and biosafety. The rapid advancement of biotechnology, particularly genetic engineering, has ushered in a new era of possibilities for enhancing agricultural productivity, improving human health, mitigating environmental challenges, and driving socio-economic development.
‘‘Our world is at a critical juncture, where scientific advancements intersect with societal values and concerns. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we engage in open, transparent, and inclusive dialogues surrounding biotechnology, particularly genetically modified organisms (GMOs).’’
On his part, the Director General and CEO of National Biosafety Management Agency, Dr. Agnes Asagbra said the forum was aimed at uniting relevant stakeholders for one common goal which is to ensure the safe application of biotechnology and the protection of our biodiversity.
According to her, the meeting was not just an opportunity to share knowledge and experiences; it was a platform to forge partnerships and collaborate towards a sustainable future.
‘’We are dedicated to safeguarding human health and preserving our rich biodiversity from potential adverse effects of modern biotechnology.
‘’Our activities span from rigorous assessments of GMOs to public awareness campaigns, ensuring that biotechnological advancements are both safe and beneficial. We have made significant strides in establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework that aligns with international best practices.’’
She assured that the National Biosafety Management Agency, under the guidance of the Federal Ministry of Environment, is committed to providing a robust regulatory framework that safeguards human health and the environment from potential adverse effects of modern biotechnology as the agency stands at the forefront of regulating modern biotechnology in Nigeria.
In her own remarks at the event, the Director on Open Forum for Agricultural Biotechnology, OFAB, Dr. Rose Gidado said the forum was meant to address the concerns of the public regarding the safety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Nigeria.
She expressed worry that the anti-GMO groups were not present at the forum because they knew the professionals were there to defend their technology and were afraid to talk in their presence.
‘‘They can only make noise at the back, use videos and social media. They can’t stand in our midst to say anything that is not science-based. They are paid by agro-chemical industries to sabotage us. The organic group is behind them. There is no basis for comparism’’.
On why penetration was still low, she said, ‘‘we are just starting; more companies are coming up to mass produce the new crop varieties.
‘‘By bringing together stakeholders from across government, academia, industry, farmer groups, civil society, and the public, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of the issues at hand, identify common ground, and chart a collective path forward that prioritizes the public good, safety, and sustainability.
