Recently the approval of genetically modified organism (GMO) foods in Nigeria has sparked a heated debate among Nigerians. With President Tinubu’s administration green-lighting the importation and local cultivation of these genetically altered crops, it’s crucial to examine what this means for the average Nigerian. 

While agencies like the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) work to ensure these foods are safe and beneficial, ongoing public education and transparent research are crucial. 

Balancing technological advancements with health and environmental integrity will be key to ensuring that GM foods benefit all Nigerians without detrimental effects.

From apples to bananas, our markets are increasingly filled with foods whose genetic makeup has been scientifically altered to enhance certain traits such as color, flavor, or nutritional content. But what lies beneath these modifications?

Potential health risks

One of the most pressing concerns with GM foods is their potential to cause health issues. Research has indicated possible toxic effects like changes in liver, kidney, and reproductive health. 

There’s also the risk of altering hematological (blood-related), biochemical, and immunological parameters. For Nigerians, where health services are stretched thin, these potential risks could pose significant challenges.

Allergic Reactions

Another side effect to consider is the possibility of increased allergic reactions. GMOs can contain genes from other organisms, which might introduce new allergens into our diet. This can be particularly problematic in a country like Nigeria, where food allergy awareness and management are still developing.

Nutritional changes

While some GMOs are engineered to be more nutritious, there’s also a risk that modification might lead to reduced nutritional quality in some cases. For instance, certain alterations aimed at increasing yield or resistance to pests might inadvertently lower the levels of vital nutrients. This could impact the overall diet quality of Nigerians who rely on these staples for their primary nutritional intake.

Environmental impact

The cultivation of GM crops can have indirect health implications through its impact on the environment. For example, while some GM crops require fewer pesticides, others may lead to increased use of certain chemicals or alter the soil composition, affecting future crop yields and biodiversity. Such environmental changes can have long-term health effects on local communities.

Socio-economic effects

Lastly, the adoption of GMOs can have socio-economic implications that indirectly affect health. If GM crops lead to monopolies in agriculture, small farmers might find it hard to compete, leading to loss of livelihood and increased poverty. Economic stress is closely linked to health outcomes, and as such, this could be a significant side effect of the widespread adoption of GM foods in Nigeria.