Clarion Olusegun
The Director General/CEO, National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha has reiterated the significance of biotechnology in revolutionizing agriculture in Nigeria
Mustapha, who was represented by Dr. Rose Gidado, Director of the Agricultural Biotechnology Department at the agency, said that the theme of the conference resonates deeply with NABDA’s vision for a sustainable, food-secure future.
He said: “As the Director General of NABDA, I firmly believe that biotechnology is an innovative tool for transforming agriculture.
“By harnessing modern biotechnology and innovative plant breeding strategies, we can develop climate-resilient crops, enhance nutritional content, and improve productivity across the agricultural sector.”
Commending NPBA for organising the event and promoting research and collaboration, he noted that the event aimed to provide a platform for experts and policymakers to share ideas, best practices, and strategies to revolutionize the agricultural sector.
He further emphasised NABDA’s commitment to advancing biotechnology to drive economic growth, mitigate the effects of climate change, and ensure food security for Nigeria.
His words: “Our agency remains dedicated to supporting research and development initiatives that push the frontiers of biotechnology and improve the lives of Nigerians.”
“Together, we can promote a future where no Nigerian child goes to bed hungry, and our agricultural sector thrives.”
The discussions from the conference are expected to catalyse transformative changes in Nigeria’s agricultural policies, driving the integration of plant breeding strategies with cutting-edge biotechnology to meet future food demands and combat the adverse effects of climate change.
The Second International Conference of the Nigeria Plant Breeders Association (NPBA) with the theme “Revolutionizing Agriculture Through the Integration of Plant Breeding Strategies and Modern Biotechnology, attracted prominent stakeholders in agriculture and biotechnology.
The conference, held on Wednesday and Thursday in Abuja, provided an avenue for stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions to Africa’s pressing food security challenges.
In his keynote address, Chairman of the Biotechnology Development Association of Nigeria (BDAN) stressed the urgent need for groundbreaking advances in plant breeding to address food shortages in sub-Saharan Africa.
In his words: “To match the levels of agricultural productivity seen in regions like Asia and South America, we require vast investments in areas such as irrigation and fertilization.
“But the real question is- are these solutions sustainable amid the growing impact of climate change and the need to produce more ood using fewer resources?”
According to him, integrating new plant breeding technologies and biotechnology is crucial to closing the food gap in our region.
He elaborated on the evolution of plant breeding, describing it as “the active science of genetic improvement of plants.”
He explained that the art, business, and science of improving plants is central to addressing major global challenges such as food security, malnutrition, climate change, and social inequalities.
He further revealed that the global seed market is expected to exceed $100 billion by 2030.
The Chairman highlighted business opportunities and potentials within the sector, saying, “by 2030, maize alone is projected to generate $40 billion globally, with soya beans following at $15 billion.”
He noted that these projections reflect the vital economic role of plant breeding in feeding a growing world population.