The Nigerian government says its commitment to ensuring the safe handling, use, and transfer of genetically modified organisms, GMOs, across borders is unwavering.
The Director General National Biosafety Management Agency Dr. Agnes Asagbra stated this at the “Consultative Workshop with Border Agencies in Nigeria” held in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
“We are committed to fostering collaborative partnerships and platforms for dialogue among border agencies, government entities, academia, industry stakeholders, and civil society organizations. By harnessing the collective wisdom and experiences of all stakeholders, we can enhance our collective capacity and drive positive change in GM cross-border trade management.” She explained.
She said Nigeria, as a nation, stands at the forefront of technological advancement, and the field of biosafety is no exception.
“It is with great pleasure and honour that I welcome you all to this significant workshop. As we gather here today, we are presented with a valuable opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue and collaboration concerning an issue of paramount importance.” Asabgra said.
The DG further stressed that Nigeria has made remarkable strides in biosafety management, particularly in the arena of GM cross-border trade.
“Our collaborative efforts with international partners, academic institutions, industry stakeholders, and civil society organizations have yielded tangible results in promoting the safe handling and transfer of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) across borders” She explained.
Asagbra however, noted that Nigeria’s experience underscores the importance of collaboration and information-sharing among border agencies.
She also added “that the National Biosafety Management Agency, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, has diligently worked to safeguard human health, biodiversity, and the environment while promoting innovation and sustainable development.”
According to her, “Effective coordination and communication are essential in ensuring the smooth and efficient movement of GMOs across borders,” while simultaneously upholding stringent biosafety standards.
Asagbra urged all participants to actively engage in discussions, exchange insights, and explore potential avenues for enhancing our collective capacity in GM cross-border trade.
Representative of AUDA-NEPAD, Mr Sam Timpo said that “there is a need for the continent to embrace new agricultural practice using technology to drive agriculture on the continent to the role of a regulatory system cannot be under estimated.”
“Working with Nigeria over the years has been the best experience,” he said.
Furthermore, he said that AUDA-NEPAD recognised the significant role of NBMA in ensuring that Nigeria stands out on GMOs related issues and regulations.
Mr Timpo also reiterated that the organisation would continue to support the NBMA to remain good examples for other countries.
Assistant Director Programmes for Biosafety Systems Netherlands, Mr John Komen said that Nigeria has been a leader on the continent and has made great gaint strides.
He noted that so far, there has be no any cases of GMOs causing harms across the globe.
“In Africa, South Africa has been dealing in GMOs for over two decades, however Nigeria and other African countries are fast coming up in this direction. Also, many agricultural exporting countries are increasing efforts to overcome challenges confronting agricultural production” He stated.
According to him, “global scientific consensus is solid and clears that GMOs are safe, 3000 scientific studies found GMOs are safer for humans animals and plants. 4485, case by case, approval by regulatory agencies across the world for food and feed use for cultivation by 2019. 284 scientific institutions, mainly in Europe, found that GMOs are safe and have economic environmental and scientific benefits.”
Mr Komen added that the National Biosafety Management Agency, NBMA, and Nigeria have made great strides in the last few years. Nigeria can now be referred to as a leader on the continent.
“Let me once again express my appreciation to DG NBMA Dr Agnes Asabgra and many others who have made this meeting a reality.” He added.
Shakirat Sadiq
