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International trade

Biotechnology in Nigeria: A Catalyst for International Trade and Food Security

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (BSN) emphasizes that biotechnology's impact extends beyond food security and healthcare, playing a significant role in shaping international trade and diplomacy. According to Prof. Sylvia Uzochukwu, President of the BSN, biotechnology is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by population growth and climate change, such as developing drought-resistant crops on a larger scale. However, she acknowledges that the sector faces challenges, including the reliance on donor funds to execute mandates.

Key Takeaways:

  • Biotechnology in Nigeria is not limited to food security and healthcare, but also has implications for international trade and diplomacy.
  • The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has a mandate to promote biotechnology in Nigeria and deregulate biotechnology products after 20 years of work with partners.
  • Challenges of population growth and climate change require bioengineering of plants to improve drought resistance on a larger scale.
  • The Federal Government established the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) to ensure the safety of biotechnology products, as required by international treaty.
  • Prof. Uzochukwu advocates for a shift in the NBMA's regulatory approach from process-based to product-based, focusing solely on product safety.
  • The NBMA's mandate to ensure the safety of genetically engineered food products before commercial release alleviates concerns among the populace.
  • Nigerian governments are encouraged to allocate funds to support science and technology initiatives, reducing reliance on donor funds.
  • Biotechnology has the potential to address global challenges such as climate change and food insecurity.

Statistics:

  • 20 years: The duration for which the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has worked with partners to promote biotechnology in Nigeria.
  • 20 years: The timeframe after which the NBRDA aims to deregulate biotechnology products.

Sources:

  • Medical News Agency (no publication date)
  • President of the Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (Prof. Sylvia Uzochukwu) in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on 12 June 2025.

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