Agency Vows To Keep Nigeria Safe From Biotechnology Hazards

The National Biosafety Management Agency, NBMA has said the agency is well prepared to ensure that the products of modern biotechnology brought into or made in Nigeria are safe for humans and the environment.

The director-general and chief executive of the agency, Dr. Rufus Ebegba gave the assurance when he received a delegation of the Environment Correspondents Association of Nigeria (ECAN) in his office in Abuja.

He gave the assurance as the chairman of ECAN, Mr. Chuks Oyema-Aziken said the association was well positioned to showcase the impressive achievements of the agency to the public.

Commending the association for what he described as its timely visit,  Dr. Ebegba said, “I know how relevant the media is and we need to work together to always acquaint the general public on policies of government.”

The DG/CEO said the NBMA is well prepared to regulate the biotechnology sector as mechanisms have been put in place to ensure that the products of modern biotechnology are safe for humans and the environment.

Dr Ebegba said due to the sensitive nature of the sector, there is an ever-crucial need for journalists to educate and enlighten rightly. He assured members of ENCAN that accurate information will be made available to anyone in need.

He expressed the readiness of the NBMA to collaborate with the association on proper reportage of Biosafety issues.

The team visited the NBMA’s Genetically Modified Organism Detection and Analysis Laboratory and were pleasantly surprised at the high tech equipment they saw.

Mr. Oyema-Aziken speaking said: “It is evident that the Agency has what it takes to regulate this sector and we are strongly on ground to report this to the Nigerian people”.

“I appreciate the Agency for good work put in place since its establishment in 2015 and, we as an association are here to expressly signal our readiness to collaborate with you in order to carry the Nigerian people along in what you do and for the development of the economy”.

He further asked for the cooperation of the NBMA in order to ensure proper reportage of biosafety issues and regulation in the country.

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