The Centre for 21st Century Issues and Nigeria CSOs Network on Climate Change organized a virtual meeting to discuss the application of biotechnology and GMOs in Nigeria's agricultural sector, gathering experts, civil society organizations, academia, and government representatives. Dr. Rose Gidado, Director of the Agricultural Biotechnology Department at the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NBMA), highlighted Nigeria's burgeoning population and the critical role agriculture plays in its economy, despite facing challenges like low productivity, pests, diseases, and climate change. She emphasized the potential benefits of GMOs, including improved crop yields, food security, pest resistance, and economic empowerment for smallholder farmers, while acknowledging concerns about safety, environmental impact, and ethical issues, assuring that GM crops undergo rigorous safety testing regulated by the NBMA. Professor Qrisstuberg Amua, Executive Director of the Centre for Food Safety and Agricultural Research (CEFSAR), raised ethical concerns surrounding GMOs, citing potential long-term effects and lack of monitoring, along with issues of labeling, corporate control, and consumer rights. Professor Victor Olumekun from Adekunle Ajasin University highlighted biotechnology's contributions to sustainable agriculture and food security, underscoring the need for collaborative efforts and informed policies. However, Joyce Brown from the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) questioned the efficacy and safety of GMOs, citing scientific comparisons showing nutritional differences between GM and non-GM crops. She expressed concerns about potential health risks, environmental damage, and violations of consumer and farmer rights, advocating instead for investment in agroecology to address root causes of food insecurity. Brown cautioned against the adoption of GMOs, urging the Nigerian government to prioritize agroecology for food sovereignty and safety. She emphasized the uncertainty surrounding GMO safety and the need for caution in their widespread adoption.
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https://independent.ng/experts-brainstorm-on-biotechnology-gmos/#google_vignette
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