The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NABDA) with the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) in Africa, Nigeria Chapter, an initiative of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) under the auspices of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) in collaboration with the International Food Policy Research Institute’s Program for Biosafety Systems (IFPRI-PBS), have trained 41 farmers association on the adoption of biotechnology.
These farmers were drawn from All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), cotton farmer’s association, maize farmer’s association, potato and cowpea farmers.
Welcoming the delegates in Abuja on Thursday during at the one day Biosafety and Biotechnology Sensitization Workshop for the Farmers’ Associations, the Director General National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Professor Abdullahi Mustapha said the deployment of modern biotechnology in agriculture reduces the use of harmful chemicals on farm and preserves the environment
“From enhanced crop yields and improved nutritional content to resilience against pests, diseases, and adverse environmental conditions, biotechnology offers a spectrum of opportunities to propel our agricultural productivity to new heights.
“Moreover, biotechnology fosters sustainable agricultural practices, reducing the dependency on harmful chemical inputs and promoting ecological balance. By harnessing the power of biotechnology, we not only safeguard the livelihoods of our farmers but also ensure food security for our nation”, Professor Abdullahi said.
The NABDA Director, Agricultural Biotechnology Department, Dr. Rose Gidado, urged the farmers to take the adoption of biotechnology seriously.
“As farmer associations, your partnership and collaboration are instrumental in the adoption and dissemination of biotechnological innovations. Together, we can leverage the tools of science to empower farmers, enhance their productivity, and contribute to the socio-economic development of our nation,” she said
In his remarks, the Regional Representative for West Africa for the African Agriculture Technology Foundation (AATF), Dr Jean Baptiste said the meeting marks a significant milestone in stakeholders’ efforts to empower Nigerian farmers with knowledge, resources, and innovative solutions that will drive sustainable agricultural development across the nation.
He said agriculture is not merely a livelihood, rather a noble calling, a cornerstone of the economy, and a pathway to food security, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability.
“Through this sensitization program, we aim to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and harness the transformative power of technology and innovation in agriculture. Together, we will explore best practices, exchange ideas, and chart a course toward greater resilience, productivity, and prosperity on your farms”, Baptiste added.
While interacting with Journalists, the National President of Maize Association of Nigeria (MAAN), Dr Bello Abubakar harped on the importance of the sensitization workshop to farmers.
He said the farmers require trainings and sensitization on emerging technologies in order to be abreast with modern seeds and inputs the they get in order to maximize its potentials
