A coalition of Nigerian scientists and biotechnology experts has publicly defended the safety of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), urging critics to present verifiable scientific evidence if they insist GMOs pose health risks.
The defence came during a press briefing held in Abuja on Wednesday, where researchers from key institutions including the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), the Nigerian Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) jointly dismissed widespread misinformation surrounding genetically modified foods.
Dr. Rose Gidado, Nigeria’s Country Coordinator for AATF, stated that all GM crops approved for commercial release in the country have undergone rigorous safety assessments and comply with international biosafety standards. “There is no credible scientific evidence anywhere in the world linking GMOs to toxicity or health hazards,” she said.
She added that Nigeria’s regulatory framework for biotechnology, led by the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), is one of the most robust in Africa, ensuring only safe and beneficial technologies are approved for use.
Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, Director-General of NABDA, also stressed that GMOs are vital tools in combating food insecurity, improving crop yields, and addressing the impacts of climate change on agriculture. “It is irresponsible to reject science-based innovations on the basis of fear or hearsay,” he said.
The scientists challenged anti-GMO activists and civil society groups to produce peer-reviewed evidence demonstrating harm caused by GMOs consumed anywhere in the world, reiterating that millions globally consume GMO foods without any reported adverse health effect.
They also called for increased public education and urged the media to help dispel myths and promote informed dialogue about biotechnology’s role in national development.