‘We must address misconceptions about biotechnology’ – FG

Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji has declared that the country must address misconceptions about biotechnology.

He made the statement in Abuja on Monday at an International Conference on Biotechnology with the theme “Biotechnology as an Engine for Economic Growth.”

The Minister, represented at the conference by Olayiwola Agoro (Deputy Director, BRT Department of the Ministry) said: “economic growth involves the increase in the production and consumption of goods and services within an economy over a specified period.”

He described the theme as ambitious, noting that it was “premised on the optimistic notion that biotechnology can significantly expand the output of our national economy. I share this optimism.

“Biotechnology has the potential to boost our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by increasing the total value of all goods and services produced in Nigeria.

“This optimism is grounded in the fact that science fuels production expansion.

“We have many patriotic and innovative biotechnologists who can ensure that more goods and services are produced and made available in our economy.

“FMIST has prioritized creating a supportive ecosystem for startups, providing them with necessary resources, mentorship, incubators, accelerators, co-working spaces, and networking opportunities.

“These support mechanisms will enable startups to grow quickly, create jobs, introduce new products and services, and stimulate competition in established industries.

“Biotechnology startups are notable revenue generators. With the emerging supportive ecosystem, there is good reason to hope that Nigeria will soon experience a higher economic growth rate, driven by licensing agreements, patents, and the commercialization of products and technologies from startups.

“I am strongly persuaded that food insecurity will become a thing of the past in Nigeria with the application of biotechnology for improved crop yields, drought-resistant crops, and better agricultural practices. However, this also requires attracting investors.”

He identified the impediments to transforming Nigeria’s economy through biotech innovation to include: “the public’s misguided aversion to biotechnology. Many misunderstand what biotechnology is and its contributions to human development.

“Some see it as an esoteric scientific endeavor with no tangible economic value, while others view it as advancing a dangerous agenda.

“To maximize biotechnology’s economic benefits, as seen in the Asian Tigers, we must address these misconceptions through public education and enlightenment campaigns.

“Public awareness of biotechnology’s role in industrial processes, such as fermentation and enzymatic conversions leading to bio-based products like bio-plastics and bio-based chemicals, can improve the investment climate. These products are biodegradable and reduce carbon footprints, enhancing their appeal to the public and investors.

“Moreover, assuring Nigerians that biotechnological practices do not occur in an ethical vacuum is essential.

“There are robust ethical frameworks addressing concerns related to genetic modification, privacy in genetic testing, and equitable access to biotechnological innovations.

“Transforming scientific advances into societal benefits requires dispelling popular myths. For example, GM foods will not foster food security and economic growth unless we execute strategic public communication programs.

“Transparency and accountability in communication can counteract anti-scientific biases and phobia, ensuring our quest for a prosperous future is successful.”