The Director General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, has asserted that advancements in biotechnology have the potential to ignite the emergence of new industries and create significant employment opportunities in Nigeria.
Speaking in an interview on Wednesday in Abuja, Mustapha emphasized that by embracing the latest biotechnological developments, Nigeria and Africa could enhance their global competitiveness.
He highlighted the transformative power of industrial biotechnology, noting that it could revolutionise manufacturing processes by making them more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable.
“Through the use of enzymes, microorganisms, and bio-based materials, we can produce a wide range of products, from bio-based chemicals to biodegradable plastics,” Mustapha explained.
“This not only reduces our dependence on fossil fuels but also paves the way for new avenues of industrial growth and innovation.”
However, Mustapha stressed that realizing biotechnology’s full potential requires collective action from all stakeholders.
He called for increased investment in research and development, stronger educational institutions, and an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.
He also pointed out the importance of public-private partnerships, international collaborations, and supportive policies in driving this agenda.
The NBRDA Director General expressed optimism that biotechnology could serve as a catalyst for economic growth, social progress, and environmental sustainability in Nigeria.
NAN
