Nigeria recently concluded the maiden edition of the International Conference on Biotechnology 2024 (ICoB24). The weeklong event, themed “Biotechnology as an Engine for Economic Growth,” attracted active participation from experts and stakeholders, both nationally and internationally. In this vox pop by NKECHI ISAAC, participants were asked two key questions: their key takeaways from the conference and how biotechnology can be deployed as an engine to drive economic growth. Read the excerpts.
Food Inflation: Biotechnology Can Transform Nigeria’s Food Security Narrative
– Prof. Chiedozie Egesi, executive director, National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike
Key Takeaways
The timing of this conference is impeccable. It aligns with the growing awareness around agricultural biotechnology in Nigeria and comes at a time when the country is grappling with food insecurity and inflation. This event has been crucial, particularly in the context of agricultural biotechnology.
A significant portion of the public has been misinformed about biotechnology, largely due to myths propagated through mainstream and social media. This conference served as a vital platform for those who attended to gain a better understanding of biotechnology and recognise its potential to shift the narrative around food security in Nigeria.
How Can Biotechnology Drive Economic Growth?
Biotechnology can be transformative in various sectors, particularly in agriculture, industry, and medicine. The current food inflation rate in Nigeria, hovering around 34 per cent, is unsustainable under the existing agricultural practices and seed varieties. With a population growth rate of 2.8 per cent annually, Nigeria must adopt new approaches, and agricultural biotechnology offers a viable solution.
This technology should not be seen as a standalone solution but as a component of a broader agricultural production system. Even with biotechnology, effective farm management is essential. However, the use of better seeds provided by biotechnology can significantly enhance crop resilience and yield, even in the face of challenges like climate change.
Countries that have embraced these technologies are not only food-sufficient but also net food exporters. By improving agricultural production through biotechnology, Nigeria has the potential to become a net food exporter, thereby driving economic growth.
Biotechnology, Future For Food Security, Economic Devt
– Vitumbiko Chinoko, Africa manager, Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB), African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF)
Key Takeaways
This conference has provided a unique opportunity to observe the advancements Nigeria has made in biotechnology and to appreciate the progress in other countries as well. The escalating impacts of climate change are affecting crop production and, consequently, our economies. Biotechnology offers solutions that can mitigate some of the challenges brought by climate change.
As our population continues to grow, so does the demand for food. Biotechnology has the potential to significantly increase production—sometimes tripling or even quadrupling yields. I see biotechnology as the future, not just for ensuring food security but also for strategically anchoring our economies.
One critical takeaway from this conference is the need for government investment in infrastructure, particularly in laboratories and other scientific facilities. The scientists are ready to do more, but they require adequate resources. The call for investment in the broader science, technology, and innovation (STI) space, especially in biotechnology, has been loud and clear.
Another important point raised is the need for a regulatory framework that facilitates, rather than hinders, innovation. In some African countries, regulations are more prohibitive than supportive. A facilitative regulatory environment would encourage scientific work and attract investors.
Moreover, there is a need for regional cooperation, especially in West Africa. Countries in this region share similar agro-ecological characteristics, so they should collaborate on methodologies that allow for data transportability. This would lead to faster approvals and commercialization of products, rather than duplicating research efforts across borders.
How Can Biotechnology Drive Economic Growth?
For biotechnology to drive economic growth, it must be integrated into our agricultural systems. Responsible governance is essential—without food security, countries will continue to rely on imports, increasing their vulnerability. By embracing biotechnology, we can reduce our dependency on food imports and ensure that the benefits of this technology contribute to national growth.
ICoB24 Showcased Nigeria’s Achievements, Potentials In Biotechnology Devt
– Dr. Oluwatoyin Ajenifujah-Solebo, director/head of department, genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics, National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency
Key Takeaways
This conference has been an invaluable opportunity to showcase the progress Nigeria has made in biotechnology and the potential that still exists. We have highlighted advancements in various sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, industry, and the environment.
A key takeaway is the need for technological advancements, particularly in genomics and bioinformatics. There are gaps in these areas, and it is crucial to address them by putting the necessary infrastructure in place. This will enable Nigeria to fully harness the benefits of biotechnology for economic growth.
How Can Biotechnology Spur Economic Growth?
Nigeria has made significant strides from where it started in biotechnology. To continue this progress, collaboration and partnerships are essential. Different actors in the biotechnology sector have unique capabilities, and by leveraging these, we can propel the sector forward.
The government has a role to play, but its contributions may not be sufficient on their own. There is a need for the private sector to become more involved. With the right partnerships and government commitment to supporting technological advancements, Nigeria can achieve significant economic growth and development through biotechnology.
Nigeria Must Use Science, Tech To Drive Economy
– Dr. Rufus Ebegba, pioneer director-general, National Biosafety Management Agency
Key Takeaways
The first International Conference on Biotechnology brought together stakeholders capable of positively influencing the biotechnology sector and its regulatory aspects. The thematic papers presented at the conference highlighted the potential of biotechnology and the legal frameworks necessary to make this technology more useful and economically beneficial.
Modern biotechnology is a powerful scientific tool that can lead to product development, research advancements, and entrepreneurship. The solutions discussed at this conference should be presented to the government. Additionally, scientists now have the opportunity to expand their research and development efforts, focusing on products that can enhance the economy rather than just academic research that ends up on shelves.
This conference has also addressed some of the controversies surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The myths and biases against this technology need to be dispelled, and more conferences like this one will help in clearing misconceptions. Nigeria must leverage science and technology to drive its economy. Without these tools, the country will continue to rely on obsolete methods that cannot enhance or diversify the economy.
How Can Biotechnology Drive Economic Growth?
The government needs to invest more in research, understanding that results may not be immediate but are crucial for long-term national prosperity. Biotechnology, particularly agricultural biotechnology, offers a pathway to food security and economic enhancement. With proper investment and application, Nigeria can expand its economy and create jobs through technological advancements.
Agricultural Biotechnology’ll Ensure Food Affordability, Security
– Prof. Rabiu Adamu, Principal Investigator, TELA Maize Project, Institute of Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Key Takeaways
This conference is timely, addressing critical issues in biotechnology. The field has been misunderstood by many who lack the knowledge of how it works, leading to widespread misinformation. However, with experts from Africa and other developed nations converging here, it’s clear that this technology is neither new nor untested. There is hope that Nigeria, with the right policies, investments and political will, can follow the path of other African countries that have succeeded in biotechnology.
Another takeaway is the realisation that the controversies surrounding biotechnology are not based on science. Instead, they stem from socio-cultural and socio-economic factors. Understanding this helps in addressing the issues more effectively.
How Can Biotechnology Drive Economic Growth?
For sustainable development to occur in any nation, especially developing ones like Nigeria, the application of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) is crucial, with biotechnology being a key driver.
Nigeria must embrace agricultural biotechnology to ensure food affordability and security. The country’s population is growing rapidly and along with other challenges like insecurity, there is an urgent need for technologies that can improve food production and increase farmers’ productivity. Biotechnology, particularly in the form of genetically modified seeds, offers a solution. These seeds are safe, adaptable to our environment, and can help pull people out of poverty, guaranteeing economic stability.
Food security is the foundation of all other forms of security. Without it, every other aspect of national security is at risk. That is why Nigeria must invest in biotechnology, particularly in modern seeds for food crops like maize and cowpea, to ensure long-term economic growth and stability.
