New breeding techniques boost food security – NBMA

The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) says the new breeding techniques of plants and animals will boost food security in the country.

Dr. Agnes Asagbra, Director-General of NBMA, gave the assurance on Tuesday in Abuja at a one-day workshop on new breeding techniques and regulations.

She said that the new breeding techniques were at the forefront of innovation, promising remarkable benefits for agriculture.

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“These techniques hold the potential to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time, from food security to sustainable development.

“Our objectives today are clear; to educate participants on the scientific principles and applications of new breeding techniques.

“Our objectives are also to highlight the importance of biosafety; to facilitate the exchange of ideas and best practices and to encourage the development of policies that keep pace with technological advancements,’’ she said.

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The director-general said that the participants would know the importance of the agency in the advancement of science and the safety of the environment.

She expressed optimism that the advancements would prioritize biosafety and the rigorous regulations of the technologies to ensure they were deployed ethically and safely.

Asagbra assured that biotechnology would be developed and utilized in a manner that would protect human health and the environment.

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Mr. Lamre Adesoye, Director, FIDDI Global Investment Nigeria Limited, said that new breeding techniques had been merged as a transformative tool to revolutionize food security in the country.

He also added that new breeding techniques would enhance crop resilience and address challenges posed by climate change.