By Stella Odueme
As Nigerians lament high cost foodstuff, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has maintained that the application of biotechnology is key to food security, improved crop yields and better agricultural production in the country.
He said Nnaji on Monday in Abuja at the International Conference on Biotechnology with theme; “Biotechonology as an Engine for Economic Growth” organised by National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency(NBRDA).
The Minister who spoke through Mr. Agoro Olayiwola, a Deputy Director in the Ministry, advocated education as there are misconceptions about biotechnology and its contributions to human development.
“Public awareness of biotechnology’s role in industrial processes, such as fermentation and enzymatic conversions leading to bio-based products like bio-plastics and bio-based chemicals, can improve the investment climate.
“These products are bio-degradable and reduce carbon footprints, enhancing their appeal to the public and investors.
“Moreover, assuring Nigerians that bio technological practices do not occur in an ethical vacuum is essential.
“There are robust ethical frameworks addressing concerns related to genetic modification, privacy in genetic testing and equitable access to biotechnological innovations,” he stressed.
Dr. Clement Ebiri, former Governor of Cross Rivers State in his keynote address, said that scientific knowledge, innovation and technology should be used to drive economic growth and wellbeing of the people.
Ebiri tasked scientists to move away from “science for science’s sake” to “science for societal benefits.
This demands entrenching a scientific culture of application-oriented research that can directly benefit individuals, households, communities and industries.
“We cannot truly envision and build a prosperous nation or continent without bridging the gap between the lab and life.
“As scientists, we must ensure our research and development initiatives have significant impacts on society and that their dividends enrich generations to come.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the Director General of NBRDA, Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, noted that biotechnology has revolutionised industries across the globe, offering innovative solutions to most pressing challenges confronting humanity.
According to him, biotechnology holds the key to unlocking sustainable development and economic prosperity in agriculture, healthcare, environmental management and industrial processes.
In his remarks, National President of All Farmers Association of Nigeria(AFAN), Arc. Kabir Ibrahim, called on farmers to embrace agricultural biotechnology for improved crop production and tackle the current hunger in the land.
Also, Kashim Shettima, Vice President of Nigeria who was represented by former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Modibo Aliyu, praised NBRDA for organising the international conference and tasked the stakeholders on bringing lasting solutions to the food insecurity in the country.
