The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to harness the potential of science and technology (S&T) to improve the lives of its citizens, particularly in food and nutrition security.
Speaking at the 8th Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) Media Award (OMA) in Abuja, Nnaji emphasized that the country’s vision for development through science will only be realized if all sectors acknowledge the critical role S&T plays in everyday life.
While noting that several African nations have recognized the importance of S&T in their development agendas, Nnaji pointed out that many countries, including Nigeria, have yet to move beyond discussions at conferences and workshops.
He called for deliberate policies that would keep Nigerian scientists at home and prevent the brain drain that has seen many leave for opportunities abroad.
He stressed the importance of incentivizing local innovation and publicizing successes to motivate more breakthroughs in science.
Nnaji also criticized the ongoing debates about the integration of S&T into Nigeria’s development plans, highlighting that science is universal, transcending national borders. “There is no such thing as ‘Nigerian science’ or ‘foreign science,’” he asserted, reaffirming the country’s commitment to improving food security and nutrition through scientific exploration.
The Minister commended OFAB for its efforts in recognizing and equipping journalists who report on agricultural biotechnology, fostering innovation and promoting informed policy dialogue.
He encouraged the media to continue spotlighting local scientific achievements, noting the significant contributions of Nigerian scientists despite limited resources.
In his remarks, the Director General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, acknowledged the crucial role of responsible journalism in communicating biotechnology’s benefits and risks.
He praised the winners of the OFAB Media Award for their dedication to responsible reporting on agricultural biotechnology, which, he said, contributes to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and food security.
Dr. Rose Gidado, Director of Agricultural Biotechnology at NBRDA, reflected on the 8-year journey of the OFAB Media Award, highlighting how the platform has bridged communication gaps and transformed the narrative around biotechnology.
Gidado emphasized the significant role journalists have played in shaping public perception and policy, especially in the commercialization of biotech crops like Bt cotton, Pod Borer Resistant Cowpea, and TELA Maize.
This event serves as a testament to the continued efforts to integrate science and technology into Nigeria’s agricultural development, with a focus on addressing food security challenges through innovative solutions.