In Nigeria, the introduction of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) is under scrutiny as a broad coalition comprising over 100 civil society organizations, farmers, scientists, legal experts, and academics is advocating for the cessation of GMO adoption. This collective stance emerges in reaction to the Federal Government's intention to publish findings from clinical trials on GM potatoes, with a call for a national prohibition articulated by Nnimmo Bassey, the Executive Director of Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF).
Bassey highlights concerns regarding the potential adverse effects of GMOs on human health, the integrity of Nigeria's food system, and fundamental human rights. He references a directive from the House of Representatives in May 2024, which paused the introduction of new GMO varieties pending an evaluation of the approval processes—a mandate reportedly overlooked as the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) proceeds with plans to introduce new GM potato varieties.
Highlighting the resistance to GM potatoes in regions such as Peru and the skepticism shown by developed nations, Bassey questions the push towards these genetically modified crops in Nigeria. This skepticism is echoed by Dr. Ifeanyi Casmir, former National President of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), who draws parallels between GM potatoes and other genetically modified crops like Bt Cotton, Bt Beans, and TELA Maize, suggesting a compromise of Nigeria's indigenous crop varieties.
Dr. Casmir criticizes the promotion of GM technology for crops predominantly utilized as biofuels and animal feed in other countries, rather than for human consumption. He calls on the government to focus on addressing the challenges faced by potato farmers in Plateau State and other regions affected by banditry, which has led to decreased productivity and increased potato prices.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, has attempted to reassure the public about the safety of GMOs, attributing concerns to misunderstandings and misinformation. Despite these assurances, the debate over GMO safety and suitability for the Nigerian market continues.
Source: The Whistler