Agency vouches for safe GM crops

The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has assured Nigerians that there would be no unwholesome genetically modified organism (GMO) crops in the country.

In addition, the agency advised both importers and scientists, who would want to introduce the crops, to obtain a permit or risk sanction.

NBMA’s Director General, Dr Rufus Ebegba, who spoke with reporters in Abuja, explained that the major role of the organisation was to ensure safety in the application of modern biotechnology and deployment of the products.

He added that they would issue licence before a product, which contains GMO material, is imported.

“We want to assure citizens that it’s only products that are safe that will be allowed into Nigeria, “ the DG promised.

Similarly, Ebegba said the agency had given approval for importation of grains for industrial use, adding that the entire exercise would be religiously monitored for compliance.