A coalition led by the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) has recently assured the public that genetically modified (GM) crops are safe for humans, animals, and the environment.
This announcement was made during a world press conference on GM technology in agriculture, held in Abuja, and attended by several key stakeholders in Nigeria’s agricultural research system.
The coalition comprises prominent organizations, including the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC), the National Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), and the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN). These groups collectively affirmed the safety and benefits of GM crops.
Highlighting the Importance of GMOs
Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, Director-General of the NBRDA, stated that the press conference aimed to educate the nation on the proven safety of GMOs. He addressed the ongoing debate regarding the safety of GMO plants on human and environmental health, which has intensified with the introduction of Tela Maize, causing widespread fear and skepticism.
Mustapha explained that GMOs represent a significant advancement in biotechnology, offering numerous benefits across agriculture, food security, health, industry, and the environment. Genetically modified organisms have the potential to address global challenges such as food scarcity, malnutrition, and environmental sustainability.
Through genetic engineering, Nigerian scientists have developed crops more resilient to pests, diseases, and adverse climate conditions, ensuring a secure food supply for future generations. Examples of such crops include Bacillus thuringensis Cowpea, Bt Cotton, and the newly released Tela Maize.
Mustapha emphasized that Tela Maize, a transgenic, drought-tolerant, and insect-resistant maize variety, is designed to thrive in challenging climatic conditions and is safe for human consumption and the environment. He highlighted endorsements from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), which have stated that GMOs are safe for consumption.
Similarly, the Nigerian government has taken a positive stance on GMOs and their safety. The technology behind GMOs, known as modern biotechnology or genetic engineering, involves the transfer of selected genes from one organism to another. This process has been extensively studied and tested, with no evidence indicating that GMOs are harmful to human health.
Benefits for Nigerian Agriculture
By adopting genetically modified crops, Nigeria can increase food security, improve crop yields, and reduce the use of harmful pesticides. Mustapha asserted that it is time to move past the fear and skepticism surrounding GMOs and embrace this cutting-edge technology for the benefit of all Nigerians.
Mustapha also highlighted the NBRDA’s role in addressing hunger, malnutrition, and poverty in Nigeria. The agency is working to ensure that Nigerian farmers have access to the latest advancements in biotechnology through research, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives. He urged journalists and participants to be ambassadors for truth and enlightenment, informing society about GMO products and dispelling misinformation.
Ensuring Safety and Compliance
Dr. Agnes Asagbra, Director-General of the NBMA, emphasized that GMOs are organisms with novel genetic material obtained through modern biotechnology, which enhances crop traits, improves yields, and addresses agricultural challenges. She noted that the NBMA is Nigeria’s sole authority on biosafety matters, enforcing standards, guidelines, and risk assessment procedures for GMOs.
The NBMA conducts rigorous risk assessments to evaluate potential risks to human health, the environment, and biodiversity before granting approvals for any GMO. This process involves scientific experts who analyze data, conduct experiments, and assess the safety of the GMO, considering factors such as allergenicity, toxicity, and unintended effects resulting from genetic modifications.
Asagbra assured that GMOs undergo thorough evaluation before approval and that the NBMA monitors GMOs even after they enter the market, tracking their impact on health, the environment, and biodiversity. If any adverse effects emerge, the NBMA takes appropriate action. She stressed that the NBMA actively engages with the public, stakeholders, and relevant organizations to ensure transparency and safety.
Policy and Research Support
Professor Garuba Sharubutu, Executive Secretary of the ARCN, noted that the council advises the Federal Government on national policies and priorities in agricultural research, training, and extension activities, including biotechnology research in agriculture to improve crop plants and livestock breeds. He highlighted the success of biotechnology in increasing productivity in crops like corn, soybean, and cotton in countries like the USA, Europe, Brazil, Argentina, and South Africa.
Dr. Khalid Ishiak, Acting Director-General of NASC, pointed out that research shows over 50% of total crop yield is determined by the genetic potential of the crop. He assured farmers that it is safe to use GMO seeds and that NASC, in collaboration with relevant institutions, is addressing farmers’ and seed producers’ concerns.
Support from Farmers
Arc. Kabiru Ibrahim, President of AFAN, emphasized that attacking GMOs in Nigeria is not in the interest of Nigerian farmers. He noted that GMOs offer farmers opportunities for better earnings and that allegations against GMOs have not been substantiated in practice.
Related Article: Farming in a Changing Climate: Insights from Lagos Farmers
Bottom Line
The coalition’s unified stance on the safety and benefits of GMOs marks a significant step towards advancing Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Embracing genetically modified crops can enhance food security, improve agricultural productivity, and support sustainable development in Nigeria.
