The Director General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha has stated that Nigeria’s food sufficiency drive will be heavily driven by research and innovation in biotechnology.
Prof. Mustapha stated this recently at the 2024 Open Forum for Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) media awards in Abuja.
In his remarks, he said “Biotechnology has emerged as a beacon of hope in the field of agriculture, offering us innovative solutions to the pressing challenges that we face today. From climate change-induced stresses to the need for increased food production to feed a growing global population, the science of biotechnology has provided us with tools and techniques to navigate these complex issues.
“The theme of this event, ‘Inform, Educate, Inspire: Celebrating Exceptional Agricultural Biotech Reporting’ is aptly chosen. In today’s world, information is power, and the media is our guiding light. The media serves as the bridge that connects the advancements and breakthroughs in biotechnology to the broader public,”.
On why the media is importantin biotechnologydevelopment, he noted that “Journalists work in translating complex scientific concepts into understandable narratives is invaluable. You inform, educate, and empower citizens to make informed decisions about the role of biotechnology in our lives,”
Reflecting on the 8 year journey of the awards, Agricultural Biotechnology Department, NBRDA, Dr. Rose Gidado noted that the event presents another opportunity to celebrate excellence in science journalism by recognizing outstanding contributions towards raising awareness on agricultural biotechnology.
“In 2017, when we launched the OFAB Media Awards with a vision to bridge the yearning communication gap in the public understanding of critical scientific advancements made in agricultural biotechnology.
“Over these eight remarkable years, OFAB Nigeria has fostered a broad and collaborative partnership with the media that has empowered many journalists and promoted science literacy.This platform has not just recognized excellence in science journalism; it has fundamentally transformed the narrative around biotechnology in Nigeria.,” she explained
She added that the ceremony “Aligns with the mission of OFAB Nigeria Chapter, which was launched on the 9th of April 2009 by the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) in partnership with the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) and the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) to enhance knowledge sharing and create awareness for better understanding and appreciation of agricultural biotechnology,”
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