NBMA, NAQS, NASC collaborate to regulate genetically modified organism

The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) and the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC) to regulate the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and its products in the country.

In a statement made available to BusinessDay, Rufus Ebegba, director general and CEO, NBMA said that the memorandum of understanding presented to the three agencies the needed platform for synergy and the opportunity to fast track the management of issues of genetic modification in a way to safeguard the health of Nigerians and the environment.

Ebegba stated that the MoU remained a landmark development in the history of biosafety in the country as it will ensure the agencies speak with one voice on issues of biosafety in the country.

“The controversy surrounding GMOs will not abate soon therefore, it is important for us, as government, to work together and be courageous to say the truth without fear or favour,” Ebegba said.

He noted that NBMA does not promote GMOs but promotes safety measures that will ensure the overall wellbeing of Nigerians.

Vincent Iselgbe, coordinating director, NAQS, during the signing ceremony, acknowledged the vital role NBMA is playing in safeguarding the health of Nigerians.

“The existence of the NBMA is vital for our country. The agency is in the forefront of protecting the health of Nigerians, as well as the environment. The country’s agriculture is currently saddled with challenges such as armyworms and other insect infestations, these developments reinforce the need for all to support the NBMA in carrying out its mandate,” Iselgbe said.

He said the agreement provided the necessary framework for his service to collaborate with NBMA as far as import and export of GMOs are concerned.

Also speaking, Phillip Olusegun Ojo, director general, NASC said that the seed council policy recognises the place of GM seeds hence the need for the council to work closely with NBMA in regulating the nation’s seed industry.

The MoU which took into cognisance the mandates of the various agencies specified areas of partnership in the import and export of GM products, seed multiplication, commercialisation and handling.

 
Josephine Okojie