The Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), Professor Garba Sharubutu has reiterated the safety of genetically modified crops released by the Federal Government.
Professor Sharubutu stated this on Thursday when he led a coalition of Nigeria’s agricultural research system comprising of National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency, National Agricultural Seed Council, National Agricultural Quarantine Service, Sheda Science and Technology Complex, and National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) to a press conference in Abuja.
The Government focal agency for the regulation of GMOs unanimously affirmed the safety and benefits of genetically modified crops.
The coalition’s position comes on the heels of the recent media campaign against GM technology in the country. The group noted that the campaigners were bent on turning the country into a dumping ground for GMOs produced in other countries negating the huge manpower available in the country.
Professor Sharubutu said that the ARCN is saddled with the responsibilities of advising the Federal Government of Nigeria on National Policies and priorities in agricultural research, training, and extension activities including research into the application of biotechnology research in agriculture to improve crop plants and livestock breed thereby increasing their productivity and boost food security of the nation.
“Research Institutes have the mandate for genetic improvement of all staple and cash crops livestock and fisheries. In achieving these mandates, the application of agricultural biotechnology in their research activities offers a novel way to develop varieties of crop plants and livestock breeds that are resilient to stresses arising from the impact of climate change and the quest to increase crop productivity by addressing farming problems,” Sharubutu said.
Furthermore, he said biotechnology has been used successfully to increase productivity in corn, soybean and cotton by combating insect pests and drought in other parts of the world including USA, Europe, Brazil, Argentina and South Africa.”
In his address, Director General NABRDA, Professor Abdullahi Mustapha said the ongoing debate regarding the safety of GMO plants on human and environmental health in Nigeria has been reignited by the introduction of the TELA Maize, sparking controversy, misinformation, and misunderstanding.
“This has resulted in widespread fear and scepticism among the public. Our aim with this event is to alleviate public concerns, dispel misinformation, and educate the nation on the proven safety and advantages of GMOs.
“GMOs represent a crucial advancement in the field of biotechnology, offering a myriad of benefits that span across agriculture, food security, health, industry, and the environment. These genetically modified organisms have the potential to revolutionise our approach to addressing pressing global challenges such as food scarcity, malnutrition, and environmental sustainability.
“By harnessing the power of genetic engineering, Nigerian scientists and researchers have developed crops that are more resilient to pests, diseases, and adverse climate conditions, thus ensuring a more secure food supply for present and future generations. Some of these crops include Bt Cowpea, Bt Cotton and the newly released Tela Maize,” he said.
Professor Abdullahi noted that by adopting and adapting genetically modified crops, Nigeria can increase food security, improve crop yields, and reduce the use of harmful pesticides. It is time to move past the fear and scepticism surrounding GMOs and embrace this cutting-edge technology for the benefit of all Nigerians.
Speaking on safety Director General of NBMA, Dr Agnes Yemisi Asagbra said that NBMA remained committed to ensuring the safety and responsible regulation of GMOs in Nigeria.
“The NBMA is Nigeria’s sole authority on biosafety matters. We enforce standards, guidelines, and risk assessment procedures for GMOs. Our commitment is rooted in the National Biosafety Management Agency Act and its regulations.
“While concerns exist about long-term effects, the current scientific consensus—supported by the NBMA—is that GMO foods approved for consumption in Nigeria are safe. This is because rigorous risk assessments guide our decisions.
“Before granting approvals for any genetically modified organism (GMO), NBMA conducts rigorous risk assessments. These assessments evaluate potential risks to human health, the environment, and biodiversity. The process involves scientific experts who analyze data, conduct experiments, and assess the safety of the GMO in question. The NBMA considers factors such as allergenicity, toxicity, and unintended effects resulting from genetic modifications,” she noted.
According to her, the NBMA actively engages with the public, stakeholders, and relevant organizations on biosafety, especially as it relates to the safety of humans, the plants, and the preservation of biodiversity in Nigeria.
Also, the Acting Director General of the National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC), Dr Kahild Ishiak, debunked insinuations relating to the viability and safety of GMO seeds.
Commenting on the notion that seeds from harvested GM materials cannot be replanted Dr Ishiak said, “seeds from GM materials that have been bred in Nigeria can be replanted.
“However, as with the conventional seeds, we have always advised farmers to always buy new seeds for optimal yield gain. Planting the offspring or farmer’s safe seeds from harvested materials may lead to yield low by about 10-15% and up to 25% in some instances.”
Architect Kabiru Ibrahim, President, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), said the attack on GMOs in Nigeria is not in the interest of the Nigerian farmers.