The Federal Government has said it is committed to the transformation of the plant breeding ecosystem to improve Nigeria’s agricultural sector, adding that seeds play a crucial role in determining the success of the entire agricultural investment and food systems.
Speaking during the 2nd International Conference of the Nigeria Plant Breeders Association (NPBA), the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Agribusiness and Productivity Enhancement, (office of the Vice President) Dr. Kingsley Uzoma, highlighted the critical role of integrating plant breeding strategies with modern biotechnology to enhance agricultural productivity.
Uzoma emphasized that stakeholders in the plant breeding and agricultural ecosystems understand the significance of combining these two dynamic scientific approaches.
He stated that this alignment with the Federal Government’s vision for productivity enhancement is key to transforming the sector.
“The foundation of any successful crop agribusiness lies in the seed,” Uzoma noted. He explained that while seeds may constitute only 5-15% of the value chain, they determine the success of the entire agricultural investment. This underscores the importance of seed innovation and its role in driving the nation’s agricultural goals.
Uzoma stressed the government’s commitment to youth empowerment and agricultural innovation.
He further addressed the challenges of misinformation surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and modern seed systems.
According to Uzoma, the integration of traditional plant breeding techniques with modern biotechnology, such as gene editing, will help dispel public misconceptions and align national agricultural efforts with true scientific advancements.
Encouraging young scientists present at the conference, Uzoma acknowledged the vital role they play in the future of plant breeding in Nigeria.
He assured them that the government is committed to the transformation of the plant breeding ecosystem and the broader agricultural sector.
“The success of our national food security strategy is deeply rooted in seed innovation,” Uzoma remarked, tying the conference’s theme directly to President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
He concluded by reiterating the government’s vision for a self-reliant Nigeria, with food security as a central pillar.
On behalf of the government, Uzoma extended warm greetings to all attendees and wished them fruitful deliberations over the two-day event.