The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has assured that new plant and animal breeding techniques available in Nigeria will boost food security in the country.
Speaking yesterday (Tuesday, December 10) at a one-day workshop in Abuja, the FCT, on new breeding techniques and regulations, Dr Agnes Asagbra, Director-General of NBMA, who gave the assurance said the new breeding techniques are at the forefront of innovation, promising remarkable benefits for agriculture.
“These techniques hold the potential to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time, from food security to sustainable development.
“Our objectives today are clear; to educate participants on the scientific principles and applications of new breeding techniques.
“Our objectives are also to highlight the importance of biosafety; to facilitate the exchange of ideas and best practices and to encourage the development of policies that keep pace with technological advancements,’’ she was quoted by the News Agency of Nigeria as saying.
According to the NBMA DG, the workshop is designed to equip the participants with the understanding of such techniques and the important role of NBMA in the advancement of science and the safety of the environment.
She expressed optimism that the advancements would prioritise biosafety and the rigorous regulations of the technologies to ensure they are deployed ethically and safely.
Asagbra assured that biotechnology would be developed and utilised in a manner that would protect human health and the environment.
Mr Lamre Adesoye, Director, FIDDI Global Investment Nigeria Limited, said that new breeding techniques have emerged as a transformative tool to revolutionise food security in the country, explaining that the techniques would enhance crop resilience and address challenges posed by climate change.
