Genetically Modified Crops Safe, Profitable —NBRDA

News in brief:

-NBRDA says GM crops are safe, regulated and beneficial for Nigerian farmers.

-Biotechnology expected to boost yields, cut costs and improve livelihoods.

The Director-General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Prof Abdullahi Mustapha, has assured Nigerian farmers that genetically modified crops are safe, beneficial and capable of improving agricultural productivity and livelihoods.

Mustapha gave the assurance during a one-day sensitisation workshop held in Kano for farmers, extension agents and traditional rulers. He said the adoption of modern biotechnology is aimed at strengthening food security, increasing yields and reducing production costs across the agricultural sector.

“You are not just farmers; you are the backbone of Nigeria,” he said, urging participants to embrace innovation designed to improve their livelihoods.

Strict Regulatory Process for GM Crops

The NBRDA boss emphasised that all genetically modified crops undergo rigorous regulatory scrutiny before approval for commercial use. According to him, the approval process is overseen by the National Biosafety Management Agency and involves scientists, health experts and environmental specialists.

“Before any GM crop is approved for use in Nigeria, it goes through a rigorous and transparent process,” he said, adding that such crops are tested extensively both locally and internationally.

Mustapha highlighted improved yield as a major advantage of genetically modified crops, noting that they are engineered to resist pests and diseases that typically reduce harvests. He explained that stronger crops translate into higher output per hectare, improved food availability and increased income for farmers.

“This means more bags of harvest per hectare and more produce to sell in the market,” he said.

Reduced Dependence on Pesticides

He noted that some of these crops are designed to resist pests naturally, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Farmers can, therefore, lower production costs while minimising health risks associated with improper chemical use.

According to the agency boss, reduced chemical application contributes to safer farming practices and improved well-being for farmers and their families.

Mustapha further explained that biotechnology can reduce the labour required for pest control and crop management.

He said this would allow farmers to expand their operations or engage in other productive activities, ultimately improving their standard of living.

The combined effect of higher yields and lower costs, he added, would enhance household income, nutrition and access to essential services.

Complementing traditional farming knowledge

The NBRDA director-general stressed that biotechnology is intended to complement, not replace, farmers’ traditional knowledge.

“GM technology is not here to replace your knowledge; it is here to support it,” he said, noting that farmers’ experience remains critical in achieving sustainable outcomes.

Call for Agricultural Innovation

He urged farmers to embrace scientifically proven innovations while seeking accurate information and guidance from relevant authorities.

Mustapha reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to continuous engagement with stakeholders to promote awareness and informed decision-making.

The workshop brought together participants from across Kano State to explore the role of biotechnology in improving agricultural productivity and strengthening food security.

Genetically modified crops are plants whose DNA has been altered through genetic engineering to introduce desirable traits such as pest resistance, herbicide tolerance and improved nutritional value.