The director-general of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha has emphasised the critical role biotechnology plays in strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural value chain and enhancing food security. Speaking at the 2nd Annual Stakeholders Forum of the Potato Farmers Association of Nigeria (POFAN) held in Abuja, Mustapha delivered a lead presentation on the benefits of biotechnology in agriculture and the vast potential it offers for a food-secure Nigeria.
In his address, Mustapha highlighted that modern biotechnology practices, such as the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), are essential not only for scientific advancement but also for the economic and social well-being of Nigeria. He pointed out that these biotechnological innovations can increase crop yields, enhance productivity, raise farmers’ incomes and reduce the environmental impact of agriculture. Notably, he underscored that there is a global scientific consensus on the safety of GMOs.
“Biotechnology is already transforming the landscape of Nigeria’s agriculture, positively impacting millions of farmers across all six geopolitical zones. Through an array of tools and techniques, it offers promising solutions for advancing agricultural productivity and sustainability,” Mustapha stated.
Represented by the agency’s director of agricultural biotechnology department, Dr. Rose Gidado, the director-general also addressed Nigeria’s ongoing hunger crisis, citing data from the 2023 Global Hunger Index, which ranks Nigeria 109th out of 125 countries. With a score of 28.3, Nigeria faces a serious hunger level, but Mustapha noted that the situation has shown improvement over the past 24 years. He emphasised that biotechnology, in collaboration with international partners, is a critical component in driving Nigeria toward food and nutrition security.
According to Mustapha, continued research, supportive policies and increased public engagement are necessary to unlock biotechnology’s full potential in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. He also explained the specific advantages of GMO products, such as pest and climate resistance. For instance, he highlighted Tela maize, which is genetically engineered to withstand drought and resist pests, reducing the need for harmful chemicals. Tela maize has shown a 17 per cent increase in yield, a reduction in pesticide use and other benefits that support food security and mitigate climate change impacts.
He called on Nigerians to embrace biotechnology and increase awareness about the safety and benefits of GMO products. “Sensitisation on the safety and benefits of these innovations should be intensified to achieve greater acceptance for planting and consumption,” he advised.
The POFAN annual conference, themed “Improving Farmers’ Knowledge on the Importance of Root and Tuber Crops as a Gateway to Achieving Nutrition and Food Security,” convened stakeholders from across the agricultural sector. The experts at the forum urged the Federal Government to implement supportive policies and provide subsidies to assist smallholder farmers in achieving food security.
POFAN president, Daniel Okafor emphasised that challenges such as insecurity are significantly impacting smallholder farmers, leading to increased hunger and hardship. He urged the government to extend its support to Nigerian farmers, pointing out that even developed countries provide subsidies to help farmers stabilise prices.
“When farmers receive subsidies, they can sell food products at affordable prices, making essential commodities accessible to the public,” Okafor stated, advocating for greater government intervention to alleviate the hardships faced by Nigeria’s agricultural community.
