NBMA DG urges experts to assist in strengthening biosafety system
NAN-AE-10
Conference
By Ebere Agozie
Abuja, Nov.10, 2016 (NAN) Dr Rufus Ebegba, the Director General, National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), has urged participants at the agency’s annual conference to suggest ideas that will strengthen the nation’s biosafety system.
Egbema made the call in his address of welcome at the 2nd edition of the Annual National Biosafety Conference, organised by the Agency in collaboration with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC).
He said that the conference taking place in Abuja with the theme: “Biosafety, Food Security and Economic Development in Nigeria,” would open discuss on specific areas of Biosafety in modern Biotechnology regulations.
“The aim is to emphasis the importance of effective biosafety regulation of food security and socio-economic development in the application of modern biotechnology in Nigeria.
“As well as how they relate to pertinent economic issues such as health care delivery systems, environmental management and economic sustainability.
“The Conference is designed to promote collaboration among scientists, line Government Institutions and stakeholders, within and outside the country to suggest ideas that will assist in the strengthening of our National biosafety system.’’
News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 1st edition of the conference was hosted by Godfery Okoye University, Enugu, in November, 2015.
The Minister of Environment, Hajiya Amina Mohammed, in her speech said the theme of the conference was not only apt but relevant to the Change Agenda of the present administration which focused on revitalising the economy, improve security and tackle corruption.
“This administration is committed to ensuring food security for all Nigerians, therefore, agriculture is one of the ways the government is making urgent efforts to diversify the Nigerian economy.
“Lack of food security is an underlining cause for some of the greatest challenges in the country today so sustainable development goals should seek to end hunger, achieve food security and improve nutrition,” she said.
Mohammed said that for Nigeria to be food sufficient, it must underscore the need for modern and climate smart agricultural practices.
“We must increase investment, including enhanced international cooperation in rural infrastructure, agricultural research and extension services, technology development and plant and livestock gene banks in order to enhance agricultural productive capacity.
“This will provide a form of economic diversification as it will bring with it a new set of skill requirements and expand job opportunities.
“And this government will welcome technology that will provide safe and adequate food for Nigerians,’’ she said.
NAN reports that National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) was established April 18, 2015, with the aim to provide regulatory framework, institutional and administrative mechanisms for safety measures in the application of modern biotechnology in Nigeria. (NAN)
EPA/AFA
Edited by Felix Ajide
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