By Toyin Omozuwa
There is no doubt that the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), an agency under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology has been at the forefront of boosting food security in Nigeria under the visionary leadership of the Director General/Chief Executive Officer (DG/CEO), Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha.
Through innovative approaches and cutting-edge biotechnology solutions, NABDA is spearheading efforts aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, improving crop yields and ensuring food self-sufficiency for the nation.
Africa’s foremost biotechnology development agency, NABDA, carries out well-focused research and development in biotechnology, in priority areas of agriculture, health, industry, environment and other strategic sectors for national development and draws up programmes and policies for biotechnology utilisation, research and development in Nigeria.
NABDA’s commitment to harnessing biotechnology solutions for sustainable national development is yielding significant fruits, particularly at the grassroots, where there is a growing appreciation of biotechnology’s capabilities to enhance food security and improve livelihoods. NABDA has therefore become a driving force in harnessing biotechnology to improve the quality of life for Nigerians thereby mitigating the socioeconomic impediments to the country’s development.
Following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency on food security in Nigeria, the Director General/CEO of NABDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to boost food security in Nigeria through Agricultural biotechnology.
“As an agency, we are fully aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on food security. By harnessing the potential of biotechnology, NABDA is determined to revolutionise agriculture in Nigeria and ensure a sustainable and secure food supply. We are already collaborating with stakeholders, farmers, and researchers to tackle these challenges head-on,” Prof. Mustapha said.
NABDA, together with national and international partners is already driving Nigeria’s economic growth with the commercialisation of two genetically modified crops, Bt Cotton and Bt Cowpea.
Nigeria’s transgenic cowpea, which is the world’s first genetically modified Pod Borer Resistant (PBR) cowpea, is revolutionising the nation’s food production. For instance, farmers who have planted and harvested the improved variety of Bt. cowpea have attested to improved yields, reduction of pests, cost efficiency resulting from near-zero use of pesticides, and enhanced livelihood.
Other transgenic crops in the pipeline of commercialisation include TELA maize, HT soybean, among several others.
The agency has also revolutionised yam seedlings production. Its target of seven million yam seedlings has largely been successful with over two million produced and distributed to farmers.
NABDA has actively promoted the adoption of modern biotechnology practices among farmers and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector. Through capacity-building programmes, workshops, and training sessions, NABDA has empowered farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively utilise biotechnology tools and techniques, resulting in increased crop yields and improved livelihoods.
The National Biotechnology Development Agency has successfully introduced biotechnology techniques to improve livestock breeding and management. By leveraging the power of biotechnology, NABDA has facilitated the production of healthier and more productive livestock, leading to increased meat and dairy production in Nigeria.
In addition, NABDA is working towards a reduction in food waste through improved food processing, packaging and preservation techniques through biotechnology.
The agency’s ongoing efforts in biotechnology research and development, strategic collaborations, and capacity-building programmes will continue to play a pivotal role in boosting food security, promoting sustainable farming practices, and fostering economic growth in Nigeria. This undoubtedly strengthens the agency’s commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to tackle food insecurity in Nigeria.
Prof. Mustapha has positioned NABDA as a leading institution in biotechnology research and development not only in Nigeria, but also across the African continent. His unwavering efforts have garnered international recognition and have solidified Nigeria’s position as a key player in the global biotechnology landscape.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the challenges of sustainable development, Prof. Mustapha’s visionary approach to biotechnology will serve as a catalyst for growth, progress, and national prosperity.
•Omozuwa, the Press Secretary, PS, to NABDA DG/CEO, writes from the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja.
