By correspondent in Abuja.
Dr.Rufus Ebegba.
Experts have underscored the importance of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) as vital tools for ensuring food security, emphasizing that modern biotechnology can address pressing agricultural challenges in the country.
This was the central message at a session titled “GMOs: Modern Biotechnology, Biosafety, and Fears,” held Thursday in Abuja.
Our correspondent reports that the event was organized by the Rufus Ebegba Centre for Leadership and Environmental Sustainability (RECLES), a non-governmental organization.
Dr. Rufus Ebegba, the founder of RECLES, expressed confidence in the transformative power of technology in shaping both economic and societal change in the country.
He stressed the growing significance of GMOs in current debates and encouraged those who oppose them to speak up, enabling a more informed discussion to counter prevailing misconceptions.
Dr. Rose Gidado, Director of the Agricultural Biotechnology Department at the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), clarified that GMOs are organisms whose genetic material have been altered through genetic engineering to benef humanity in various ways.
She outlined several advantages of GM technology, including pest resistance, herbicide tolerance, disease resistance, improved nutrient content, and enhanced nitrogen efficiency.
She added that the environmental benefits of GMOs, such as reduced carbon emissions, zero-tillage farming methods that prevent soil degradation, water conservation through drought-resistant crops, and increased biofuel production.
Dr. Gidado further explained that biotechnology is not only essential for agriculture but also plays a key role in health, industry, and environmental sustainability.
Addressing public concerns about the safety of GMOs, Dr. Gidado assured the public that global scientific consensus now confirms that GM crops are as safe as their non-GMO counterparts.
She stressed that while all food production carries inherent risks, the notion of “zero risk” is unrealistic.
Mr. Abisabo Adamu, Principal Scientific Officer at the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), spoke on the agency’s role in ensuring the safe adoption of GMOs.
He explained that biosafety measures are designed to protect both human health and the environment by regulating the use, handling, and disposal of GMOs.
Adamu also noted that biotechnology has a long history, particularly in medicine, and continues to evolve with stringent safety protocols in place.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
