Stakeholders have called for a review of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) Act to institutionalise a multi-agency framework for the approval and release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Nigeria.
The recommendation emerged during separate interviews conducted at a media training programme on “Biosafety and Agroecology” organised for journalists in Abuja on Tuesday.
Speaking at the event, molecular biologist and public health expert, Dr. Casmir Ifeanyi, expressed concerns over the existing legal framework arguing that it grants excessive authority to the National Biosafety Management Agency in matters relating to the approval and regulation of genetically modified organisms.
According to him, a more inclusive regulatory system involving multiple government institutions would enhance transparency strengthen consumer protection and safeguard Nigeria’s food sovereignty.
Ifeanyi stressed the importance of ensuring that decisions concerning biotechnology and genetically modified products take into account public health considerations, environmental sustainability and the interests of local farmers and consumers.
He noted that adopting a multi-agency approach would provide broader scientific input and improve public confidence in the country’s biosafety regulatory processes.
Participants at the programme also emphasized the need for increased public awareness and greater stakeholder engagement on issues relating to biosafety, agroecology and the use of biotechnology in agriculture.
The training programme was designed to equip journalists with a better understanding of biosafety issues and promote informed reporting on agricultural biotechnology and related policies.
Stakeholders maintained that strengthening Nigeria’s biosafety framework is essential to balancing technological advancement with environmental protection, food security and the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector.
