ibironkeeniola The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has said that it will guarantee the safe use of Genetically Modified Organisms and Foods for Nigerians.
Director General of NBMA, Dr. Rufus Egbeba who made this disclosure in Abuja, said that the agency was aware of the controversies in the sector on Genetically Modified Organisms; while noting that the agency’s role is to ensure that the sector is safe.
He said, “I use this medium once more to assure Nigerians that National Biosafety Management Agency will not fail Nigerians.
“We also have some already approved genetically modified organisms for commercial purpose like beans, cotton, and some that have already been approved for feed processing, that is maize for feed processing and soya beans for vegetable oil processing”.
“Due diligence in the area of risk assessment has been carried out on these products, Nigerians should be rest assured that these products are safe. We will continue to monitor them for any adverse changes that may manifest and we will continue to do that regularly.
“We are also carrying out a survey to ensure that it is only genetically modified foods or organisms that are approved that will be on the shelves”, he added.
As regards to the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture on the regulation of animal biotechnology, Dr. Rufus said that it was to make the country solid for fast advancing technology.
He further urged Nigerians to consume genetically modified products and also trust government policies on GMOs, noting that Nigeria is evolving and only patriotism could get the leaders to serve Nigerians better.
SOURCE: AGRONIGERIA