This was revealed yesterday at a one-day consultative forum with importers and dealers of genetically modified organisms, seeds and grains that was organised by NBMA, in collaboration with the Programme for Biosafety System (PBS), in Lagos .
NBMA’s Director-General, Agnes Yemisi Asagbra, said: “We have always seen the need that the safety of our people, plants, animals and our environment is ensured, and what we are doing here is to sensitise importers of grains and seeds because if they don’t do it right, sanctions will be imposed on them.”
When asked about the fear among Nigerians about Genetically Modified Foods, she noted: “GMOs are safe for human and animal health, plant life and the environment, and we make sure that we do proper science-based procedures, risk assessment and management. We also have the national safety committee, which contains a group of professionals, who analyse and also have the national bio-safety technical sub-committee, where we meet together to make sure that the foods are safe.
“We are collaborating with agencies to ensure compliance and safety. This is crucial for advancing our agricultural sector and the well-being of our nation.
“Let us acknowledge the significance of our collective endeavour. We are at the forefront of integrating innovative biotechnological advancements into our agricultural practices.”
Addressing the stakeholders, Asagbra noted: “The seeds and grains you bring to our tables are not just commodities, they result from rigorous research, dedication, and a shared vision for a sustainable future.
“The NBMA is committed to ensuring that these innovations in genetically modified organisms (GMOs) meet the highest standards of safety and contribute positively to our environmental and economic landscapes. Our role is to facilitate progress while safeguarding our citizens’ health and our ecosystems’ integrity.
“Today’s (yesterday) meeting is an opportunity for open dialogue, to share insights, address concerns, and forge a path forward that honours our commitment to science-based decision-making. Your expertise and input are invaluable as we strive to balance innovation with responsibility.
“Our collaboration is key to unlocking the potential of biotechnology. Together, we can achieve a future where food security and biosafety go hand in hand, ensuring prosperity for all.”
Also, Deputy Controller Adetule Adedoyin, who is with the NAQS, submitted: “We are trying our best, and we have been able to prevent 60 per cent of bad grains. There are agents trying to cut corners. Some people are trying to frustrate the work, but we are trying our best to make sure that everything is in order.”
Also speaking, Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC), Adejoke Abimbola Oluwole, who represented the Comptroller-General, Bashiru Adewale Adeniyi explained: “One of our policy thrusts is trade facilitation. So, we have been committed to it. We are committed to reducing smuggling and illegal importation to the barest minimum. It’s still a work in focus but it’s steadily being actualised, especially under the leadership of our new CG, and we are in the process of using artificial intelligence to checkmate illegal activities, and we are also going to commission our laboratory in conjunction with sister agencies.
“Every importation should be based on the safety of Nigerians and Nigeria. Importers should make sure that they pay their duties and taxes for revenue generation.”
