Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, has emphasized the crucial role of biotechnology in ensuring food security, enhancing crop yields, and improving agricultural practices in Nigeria.
Speaking at the International Conference on Biotechnology organized by the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) in Abuja on Monday, Nnaji highlighted the potential of biotechnology to drive economic growth and address pressing challenges in agriculture and beyond.
Represented by Mr. Agoro Olayiwola, a Deputy Director in the Ministry, Nnaji lamented the widespread misconceptions about biotechnology, which hinder its application in the country.
He called for comprehensive public education campaigns to dispel these misconceptions and enlighten the public about the benefits of biotechnology.
Nnaji stressed the importance of increasing public awareness about the role of biotechnology in industrial processes, such as fermentation and enzymatic conversions, which lead to the production of bio-based products like bio-plastics and bio-based chemicals.
“Public awareness of biotechnology’s role in industrial processes, such as fermentation and enzymatic conversions leading to bio-based products like bio-plastics and bio-based chemicals, can improve the investment climate,” Nnaji stated.
The minister assured Nigerians that biotechnological practices are governed by robust ethical frameworks addressing concerns related to genetic modification, privacy in genetic testing, and equitable access to biotechnological innovations.
In his keynote address, Dr. Clement Ebiri, former Governor of Cross Rivers State, urged scientists to focus on application-oriented research that directly benefits society.
“We cannot truly envision and build a prosperous nation or continent without bridging the gap between the lab and life,” Ebiri stated.
On his part, Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, Director General of NBRDA, highlighted biotechnology’s revolutionary impact on various industries, offering innovative solutions to humanity’s most pressing challenges.
He pointed out that biotechnology is key to unlocking sustainable development and economic prosperity in agriculture, healthcare, environmental management, and industrial processes.
Mustapha called for concerted efforts from all stakeholders, emphasizing the need for investment in research and development, strengthening educational institutions, and creating an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Also speaking, Kabir Ibrahim, National President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, encouraged farmers to adopt agricultural biotechnology to achieve improved crop yields and better agricultural practices.
He argued that biotechnology is essential for Nigerian farmers to overcome poverty and contribute to the country’s socio-economic development.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Dr. Modibo Aliyu, former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, commended NBRDA for organizing the international conference.
He urged scientists, researchers, and other key stakeholders to work diligently towards finding solutions to food insecurity in Nigeria.
The five-day international conference is themed “Biotechnology as an Engine for Economic Growth,” focusing on the transformative potential of biotechnology in driving economic development and addressing critical challenges in Nigeria.
