“We can’t poison our own people” – FG defends GMOs, assures Nigerians of safety, food security boost

Federal Government has dismissed claims that Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are harmful, emphasizing their role in enhancing food security and nutrition in Nigeria.

During a sensitisation workshop in Abuja on Wednesday, organized by the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) and the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) for Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMOH/SW) officers, experts reaffirmed the safety and necessity of GMOs.

Director of NBRDA’s Agricultural Biotechnology Department, Dr. Rose Gidado, addressed concerns, stating, “We cannot give poison to our own people.

“Nigerian scientists, including professors in this field, are responsible professionals and consumers themselves.”

She highlighted that GMOs have been safely used in over 45 countries for 30 years and that Nigeria’s National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) ensures stringent safety protocols.

“Safety is never compromised,” Gidado assured.

Dr. Angarawai Ignatius from the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT-NG) explained that biotechnology strengthens crops against pests, diseases, and climate stress, addressing Nigeria’s shrinking farmland and growing population.

“Genetic modification enhances crop resilience without risking human health,” he noted.

Representing NBRDA’s Director-General, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, Dr. Oyedele Julius emphasized Nigeria’s alignment with global scientific standards, citing the approval of insect-resistant and drought-tolerant maize varieties.

“Biotechnology supports President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by reducing crop losses, stabilizing food supply, and lowering prices,” he said, adding that reduced pesticide use protects rural communities.

Mrs. Olubunmi Aribeana, represented by Dr. John Atanda from FMOH/SW, underscored rigorous risk assessments for GMO products, including allergenicity and environmental safety.

“Every GMO undergoes strict regulatory processes, including labelling and traceability, to build consumer trust,” she stated.

Prof. Emmanuel Kwon-Ndung of Federal University, Lafia, addressed GMO skepticism, noting, “Much opposition stems from political or ethical concerns, not science. We must communicate evidence to dispel myths.”

The workshop, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), aims to boost awareness among ministry officers, foster public confidence in Nigeria’s biosafety framework, and promote evidence-based policymaking.

With Nigeria’s population exceeding 240 million and food insecurity rising, experts argue that biotechnology is critical to meeting future food demands through increased yields and climate resilience.