By Simeon Shodimu
Genetically modified crops safe, profitable, NBRDA reassures farmers
The Director-General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, has assured Nigerian farmers that modern biotechnology, including genetically modified technology, is safe, beneficial, and designed to improve agricultural productivity and livelihoods.
Mustapha gave the assurance on Monday in Kano during a one-day sensitisation workshop for farmers, extension agents, and traditional rulers.
He said the introduction of biotechnology into agriculture is aimed at strengthening food security, increasing yields, and reducing production costs for farmers across the country.
“You are not just farmers; you are the backbone of Nigeria. I have come here today with a simple but important message: modern biotechnology, including genetically modified technology, is safe, beneficial, and designed to improve your lives and livelihoods,” he said.
The NBRDA boss said all GM crops undergo strict regulatory scrutiny before approval for commercial use in Nigeria, stressing that no crop is released without scientific validation.
“Before any GM crop is approved for use in Nigeria, it goes through a rigorous and transparent process led by the National Biosafety Management Agency,” he said.
According to him, the process involves scientists, health experts, and environmental specialists who ensure that approved crops pose no danger to humans or the environment.
These crops are tested over many years, both locally and internationally, to ensure they meet the highest safety standards. Countries have used GM crops for over two decades without proven harm to human health,” he added.
Mustapha said one of the major benefits of GM technology is increased yield, as crops are engineered to resist pests and diseases that normally destroy harvests.
“Instead of losing a large portion of your farm to insects or infections, your crops remain strong and productive,” he said.
“This means more bags of harvest per hectare, more food for your family, and more produce to sell in the market. In simple terms, more money in your pocket.”
The DG also noted that GM crops would reduce farmers’ dependence on pesticides, which he described as costly and sometimes hazardous when improperly used.
“Some GM crops are developed to naturally resist major pests. This means you will spray fewer chemicals, spend less on farm inputs, and protect your health and that of your family,” he said.
He added that reducing chemical usage would not only save costs but also improve farmers’ well-being and safety.
As Nigeria grapples with food security challenges and rising production costs, the push for modern agricultural solutions is gaining momentum. Experts say biotechnology could play a decisive role in transforming farming outcomes, boosting yields, and improving rural livelihoods.
The Director-General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, has reassured Nigerian farmers that genetically modified (GM) crops are safe, beneficial, and capable of significantly improving agricultural productivity and incomes.
Speaking at a one-day sensitisation workshop in Kano on Monday, Mustapha emphasised that modern biotechnology is designed to strengthen food security, reduce farming costs, and enhance overall livelihoods.
Addressing farmers, extension workers, and traditional rulers, he described them as the backbone of the nation’s economy, noting that biotechnology innovations are tailored to support their efforts and ensure more reliable harvests.
According to him, GM crops undergo a stringent regulatory process before being approved for commercial use in Nigeria. He explained that the National Biosafety Management Agency leads a comprehensive and transparent review involving scientists, health professionals, and environmental experts.
“No genetically modified crop is released without thorough scientific validation,” he said, adding that such crops are subjected to years of testing both locally and internationally to meet global safety standards.
Mustapha noted that countries around the world have cultivated GM crops for over two decades without any proven harm to human health, reinforcing confidence in their adoption.
He highlighted increased yield as one of the major advantages of GM technology, explaining that such crops are engineered to resist pests and diseases that typically devastate farms.
“Instead of losing a large portion of your harvest to insects or infections, your crops remain strong and productive,” he said. “This translates to more output per hectare and higher income for farmers.”
The NBRDA boss also pointed to reduced reliance on chemical pesticides as another key benefit. He noted that some GM crops are naturally resistant to major pests, allowing farmers to cut down on chemical usage.
“This means lower costs for inputs, reduced exposure to hazardous substances, and better health outcomes for farmers and their families,” he added.
He further stressed that beyond economic gains, reduced chemical application contributes to safer farming practices and improved environmental sustainability.
The agency’s renewed advocacy comes amid growing efforts to modernise Nigeria’s agricultural sector and position farmers to meet rising food demand while adapting to changing climate conditions.
