The Nigerian government on Monday reiterated its commitment to building public trust in biotechnology innovations that will revolutionize agricultural practices.
Abdullahi Mustapha, director-general of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency, told reporters at a forum themed “Advancing Agricultural Biotechnology for Food Security and Economic Growth in Nigeria” in Abuja, the Nigerian capital, that agricultural biotechnology, when responsibly developed and effectively adopted, offers a powerful set of tools that could help address challenges.
Mustapha said biotechnology innovations hold promises for tackling agricultural challenges like social unrest, among others, offering solutions for a better future. “These innovations are not just scientific milestones; they represent real opportunities to transform lives, improve farmer livelihoods, and enhance national food systems,” he noted.
The senior research official said that by harnessing science and technology, Nigeria can develop resilient crop varieties, improve pest and disease resistance, and enhance nutritional content, while ensuring that agricultural practices are sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Agriculture in Nigeria has continued to face monumental challenges, with food insecurity, climate change, pest infestations, and soil degradation threatening the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers, according to local experts.
Patricia Lar, acting vice chancellor of the University of Abuja, said that despite these challenges, opportunities still exist for innovation, collaboration, and transformation. Enditem
Source: Xinhua
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