National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) has said Nigerians need to explore benefits of biotechnology to attain food security.
Director-General of the agency, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, who who spoke at the Sixth Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) Media Award and Gala Nite in Abuja, said applying biotechnology in agriculture would enable Nigeria attain food and nutrition security.
This, he noted, would become feasible following commercialisation of genetically modified cotton and cowpea.
He urged the media to prioritise dissemination of fact-based information about biotechnology and counter popular myths that do not fuel national progress.
Mustapha said: “Many well-meaning Nigerians are misinformed and unaware of the benefits of biotechnology.
“Others are misinformed about it, while some have embraced conspiracy theories alleging that biotechnology is aimed at reducing the human population.
“Objective dissemination of scientific facts will make the business environment more friendly and accommodating, spur investments in biotechnology and aid rapid commercialisation of research findings”, he added.
Country Coordinator of OFAB in Nigeria, Dr Rose Gidado, said the award was to recognise journalists covering agric biotech stories in sub-Saharan Africa to appreciate their contribution in promoting agricultural technologies
She noted that the award also celebrates and promotes innovative best-practices in biotechnology and other technologies that address food insecurity, climate change, and sustainable development.