The Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) in Africa, Nigeria chapter, is urging an end to the spread of misleading information about Genetically Modified (GM) crops by activists.
The Director, Agriculture Biotech Department at NABDA, Dr Rose Gidado emphasized the crucial role of agricultural biotechnology in addressing food shortages and assured the public of safety measures taken before releasing Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).
Despite the proven safety records and acceptance among farmers, Gidado expressed concerns about persistent opposition from various groups, including organic farming advocates, philosophical or religious objectors, and those driven by political and economic motives.
She highlighted the lack of scientific evidence supporting these claims and warned about the weaponization of fabricated stories to mislead the public.
Gidado stressed the importance of agricultural biotechnology in crop improvement, citing examples such as Bt crops’ success in providing protection against pests. She emphasized the widespread adoption of GM crops globally and urged farmers to embrace GM seeds for higher yields and to reduce routine farm practices.
Additionally, she advocated for the use of Nano nutrients to boost crop production. Gidado pointed out the adverse effects of climate change on agricultural production, especially in northern Nigeria, and emphasized the role of biotechnology in mitigating these impacts.
OFAB emphasized the need for Nigeria to adopt modern agricultural technologies to tackle food security challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.