The federal government has held a one-day sensitization engagement with farmers to clarify misconceptions surrounding the safety of biotechnological products in the southeast.
This is part of efforts to increase stakeholders’ awareness of the benefits of agricultural biotech crops.
The event held recently at the Godfrey Okoye University in Enugu, was intended to promote discussion and idea-sharing on the role of biotechnology in influencing the future of agriculture among farmers, scientists, and policymakers.
Delivering a keynote address, the Director General/CEO, National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Prof Mustapha Abdullahi, said that the solution to many of the most important problems affecting agriculture and other fields lies in biotechnology.
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“Through this sensitization workshop, we aim to deepen our understanding of biosafety regulations, biotechnological advancements, and their implications for Nigeria.
“By fostering dialogue, sharing best practices, and raising awareness, we can empower stakeholders at all levels to make informed decisions and participate meaningfully in the biotechnology revolution unfolding before us,” the DG said.
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor, Godfrey Okoye University, Prof Christian Anieke, said that biotechnology was steadily gaining ground in the country especially with the commercialization of Bt Cotton and PBR Cowpea.
“Farmers in the Northern and Southern Zones are well sensitized and have adopted these for their commercial needs. There is, therefore, a need to organize a special biotechnology & biosafety advocacy and sensitization programme for selected farmers, extension agents, State Government and MDAs in the Southeast.
“Biotechnology has wide application to the improvement of the life of anything that has DNA, spanning the disciplines of Agriculture, Environment, Medicines,” the vice Chancellor stated.
Dr Rose M. Gidado, the Director, Agricultural Biotechnology Department, NBRDA who spoke on “breaking the barriers of prejudices through science communication – the case of PBR Cowpea” said dispelling deceptions and biases regarding scientific innovation requires effective science communication, adding that the “PBR Cowpea is a genetically modified crop that has faced public skepticism and resistance.”
She said: “It’s important to address these prejudices and misconceptions through science communication, education, and engagement with local communities and farmers.
“By providing accurate information, sharing research findings, and involving local experts, we can help build trust and promote a better understanding of the benefits and risks of PBR Cowpea.”
Iweajunwa Sarah Ogochukwu, Head, Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology & Biotech Awareness, said the event sought to “equip the participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to harness the potential of biotechnology for sustainable agricultural development while addressing concerns related to its adoption and implementation.”
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