Untapping the potential of Nigeria and West Africa in terms of food exports and the necessity to maximize the benefits of available technology, it is urgent for the country to leverage technology to bolster its agricultural sector, Citizens Advocacy Group have said.
They noted that Nigeria’s advancements in biotechnology, particularly in genetically modified crops like BT Cowpea (beans) and Tela Maize (a drought-resistant variety), have the potential to transform the agricultural landscape and enhance food security.
However, they stated that the country is yet to leverage the opportunities in the sector owing to the slow adoption of new technologies, such as biotechnology, in its agricultural space.
They noted Nigeria’s ratification of international agreements on biosafety and the establishment of regulatory frameworks like the National Biosafety Management Agency Act in 2015 to ensure the safe application of biotechnology.
They explained that despite longstanding commitment, misinformation and fearmongering persist, propagated by individuals with vested interests or a lack of understanding of the science behind biotechnology. Such narratives not only impede progress but also pose a threat to our nation’s food security and economic prosperity.
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The Executive Director, Citizens Advocates for Social and Economic Rights CASER, Frank Tietie, who spoke on Tuesday at a press briefing in Abuja said it is disheartening, to witness displays of ignorance regarding the benefits of genetic modification, as evidenced by recent remarks made within the Federal Ministry of Justice.
According to Tietie, such ignorance undermines the substantial progress Nigeria has achieved in this field and jeopardizes our ability to harness the full potential of biotechnology for the betterment of our nation.
“Nigeria’s journey in biotechnology dates back to the late 1980s, with the establishment of legislative frameworks aimed at fostering the safe and beneficial application of modern biotechnological techniques.
“These laws reflect our nation’s commitment to leveraging biotechnology for socio-economic development,” he said.
Tietie said it is imperative that we dispel myths surrounding biotechnology and embrace evidence-based approaches to policymaking and public discourse.
“The National Biosafety Management Agency Act of 2015 stands as a testament to Nigeria’s dedication to ensuring the safe and responsible application of biotechnology.”
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“Furthermore, international agreements such as the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity and the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety underscore Nigeria’s commitment to upholding rigorous safety standards in biotechnological practices,” he explained.
Tietie stated that as we stand on the precipice of transformative advancements in agriculture, particularly with the commercialization of genetically modified crops such as BT cotton and Tela Maize, we must redouble our efforts to ensure equitable access to these innovations for our farmers.
“These crops hold the promise of increased yields, resilience to environmental stressors, and enhanced nutritional value – vital components in addressing food insecurity and improving the well-being of our citizens, especially those most vulnerable,” he said.
Addressing concerns over GM foods, Tietie emphasized the need for evidence-based decision-making, citing global research that has found no adverse effects associated with GM foods.
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He urged stakeholders to focus on authentic ways to make GM seeds abundantly available to farmers to improve yields, resilience to environmental challenges, and nutrition.
Tietie also criticized opposition to biotechnology, labelling it as backward thinking and rooted in unfounded fears and conspiracy theories.
He called on Nigerians to engage authorities and contribute constructively to the discourse on biotechnology rather than resorting to protests and spreading false information.
Tietie reiterated the importance of embracing biotechnology for Nigeria’s progress, emphasizing its potential to address food security challenges and improve the health and well-being of the population.
