Biotechnology Will Address Food Shortage, Says FG

Federal government has charged Nigerians to embrace biotechnology as a measure to address food shortage, disease control, and climate change.

The director-general/CEO of National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency, Prof Abdullahi Mustapha made the call during the one-day agricultural biotechnology youth vanguard workshop for farmers and students in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

Abdullahi said biotechnology as an emerging science held the solution to the menace of food crisis, incessant insect attacks, and climate change.

He said, “In a world facing complex challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, and healthcare disparities, the role of biotechnology in addressing these issues cannot be overstated. It is imperative that we equip our youth with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to leverage biotechnology for sustainable development and societal progress.”

Furthermore, he said the establishment of the Biotechnology Youth Vanguard was to empower them to become ambassadors of biotechnology and agents of change in the different communities.

He explained that NBRDA is the federal government agency established under the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, to implement policies that is aimed at promoting, coordinating, and setting research and development priority in biotechnology in Nigeria.

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State on his part, said the establishment of the Biotechnology Youth Vanguard would serve as a platform for nurturing talent, fostering innovation and driving progress in the sector.

“Biotechnology holds immense promise for addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing our society from ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture to combating diseases and improving healthcare outcomes,” he noted.

Uzodimma, who was represented at the event by the director-general of the Imo State Investment Promotion Agency (ISIPA), Prof Jude Ezeako, pledged his support for the project, and charged the youths to advance the state as a hub of innovation and excellence in biotechnology.

Head, Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology and Biotech Awareness, Sarah Iweajunwa, said the Biotechnology Youth Vanguard represented a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future. “By catching the youth early in their career development, we can build a robust pipeline of talent in biotechnology, capable of driving scientific and economic advancements. This initiative will not only empower young Nigerians but also contribute to the nation’s development and global competitiveness in biotechnology.”