The Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (BSN) has made a significant declaration regarding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the country, asserting their safety for human consumption, livestock, and the environment. This endorsement came during a symposium held in Abuja, which honored Vincent Tenebe, the chairman of the BSN’s board of trustees. The event served as a platform for discussions on biotechnology’s role in addressing food security in Nigeria and Africa at large.
Vincent Tenebe, who previously served as the vice-chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria, took the opportunity to challenge the prevailing skepticism surrounding GMOs. He characterized the ongoing debate over their safety as a misleading narrative propagated by anti-GMO advocates, who he accused of hindering Africa’s potential for food self-sufficiency. “The issue is not about safety but business,” Tenebe asserted, suggesting that those opposed to GMOs are more interested in maintaining Africa’s dependence on food imports than in fostering local agricultural innovation.
Tenebe emphasized the naturalness of GMOs, arguing that they represent a continuation of humanity’s ability to manipulate biological processes for our benefit. He urged the public not to be swayed by the confusing messages from anti-GMO factions, asserting that these groups often emerge when Africa is on the verge of significant agricultural advancements. He underscored Africa’s rich biodiversity and the high demand for its agricultural resources, reinforcing the idea that embracing biotechnology could be a pathway to greater food security.
The BSN’s endorsement of GMOs could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s agricultural policies and practices. By officially recognizing the safety of GMOs, the society may pave the way for increased investment in biotechnological research and development, potentially leading to more robust agricultural yields and improved food security. This endorsement also signals a shift in the narrative around GMOs in Nigeria, encouraging farmers and stakeholders to consider the benefits of adopting genetically modified crops as a means to enhance productivity and resilience in the face of climate change and other agricultural challenges.
As the conversation around GMOs continues to evolve, the BSN’s stance may influence public perception and policy decisions, ultimately shaping the future of agriculture in Nigeria and possibly across the African continent.
