The Director General of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), Agnes Asagbara, recently made waves at a workshop in Abuja, highlighting the pivotal role of science, technology, and innovative plant re-engineering in enhancing food security across Nigeria. Asagbara emphasized the agency’s commitment to leveraging new breeding techniques, a strategic move designed to address some of the pressing challenges related to food sustainability and security in the country.
During her address, Asagbara remarked, “As we embrace these advancements, it is imperative that we prioritize biosafety alongside the rigorous regulation of these technologies. This ensures that we deploy new breeding techniques ethically and safely.” The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated, especially in the context of Nigeria’s growing population, which continues to place increased pressure on food resources.
Asagbara also expressed excitement about the agency’s plans to engage in meaningful dialogues with stakeholders, sharing knowledge and insights on new breeding techniques. The goal is to foster a culture of safety, responsibility, and collaboration that will enhance the agricultural landscape. She stated, “We are confident that the insights and outcomes from the workshop will significantly contribute to ensuring that biotechnology is developed and utilized in a way that protects human health and the environment.”
The workshop featured contributions from experts like Prof. Celestine U. Aguoru from Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University in Makurdi, who explained that these new plant breeding techniques allow for the creation of new plant varieties with desirable traits through sophisticated modifications to the DNA of seeds and plant cells. This cutting-edge approach has only emerged in the past fifteen years and reflects rapid advancements in genetic technology.
As Nigeria charts a path toward greater food security, these innovative methods hold the potential to revolutionize agriculture and set a precedent for responsible biosafety practices. By prioritizing ethical considerations, the NBMA aims to ensure that science serves the nation’s agricultural needs—safely and sustainably.
Stay tuned for more updates on biotechnology and its potential to transform industries across Africa. #Nigeria #Biosafety #FoodSecurity #Agriculture #Innovation #WorldNews
