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From Desmond Mgboh, Kano
The Director-General, National Biotechnology, Research and Development Agency, Prof Abdullahi Mustapha has charged Nigerian farmers to embrace biotechnology to ensure agricultural productivity and food security in the face of climate change and population increase.
He made the remarks on Monday in Kano at a one -day sensitization workshop for farmers , extension agents and traditional rulers from Kano and Jigawa State.
He insisted that the biotechnology, including genetically modified (GM) technology. is safe, beneficial and designed to improve lives and livelihoods.
He added that before any genetically modified crop is approved for use in Nigeria, it goes through a rigorous and transparent process led by the National Bio-safety Management Agency, adding that the Agency works with top scientists,health experts and environmental specialists to ensure that any crop released to the farmers is safe.
“These crops are not released causally. They are tested over many years- locally and internationally – to ensure that they meet the highest standards of safety” he stated.
He observed that one of the biggest advantages of genetically modified technology is higher yield, adding that many of the genetically modified crops are designed to resist pests and diseases that undermined yield
“Instead of losing a large portion of your farms to insects or infections, your crops remain strong and productive”, he stated while adding that, “When your crops are stronger and more resistant , yu spend less time battling with pest and more time focusing on expanding your farms” he stated.
He declared that together with farmers and agricultural stakeholders, a Nigeria where agricultural productivity is high and where farming households thrive is very possible
Speaking at the event, the President of the Seed Association of Nigeria (SEEDAN),Alhaji Yusuf Kibya validated his claim on biotechnology in today world, saying that it represented progress and development in the society.
