The Director General, National Biosafety Management Agency, Dr Agnes Asagbra, has said the agency will put measures in place to address the issue of importation of genetically modified products in the country.

Asagbra revealed this at a media briefing on the agency’s activities and progress with super stores in Abuja, promising to work hand-in-hand with superstores, providing support, guidance to ensure the importation is aligned with the highest standards of Biosafety.

She reiterated the agency’s mandate of regulating products, and the critical issue of importing them, noting that in a world driven by innovation and progress, the development has become an integral part of the global food supply chain.
 
Asagbra said: “As we navigate the complex landscape of biotechnology, let us remember that our decisions today shape the future of agriculture, health, and the environment. We’ll not only fulfill our regulatory obligations but also contribute to a sustainable and resilient future.”

The Director General noted that it is the collective responsibility of the agency to ensure that the advancements are harnessed safely and responsibly, adding, “Biosafety is not merely a regulatory hurdle, but to address global challenges such as food security, crop resilience, etc.”

She, therefore, warned offenders and those who go against the rules and guidelines of the Act that they will not go unpunished, “we will not hesitate to wield the big stick of penalties against any establishment that contravenes the provisions of the law.”