1 week ago
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ABUJA – The Director General/CEO of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), Dr Agnes Yemisi Asagbra, has pledged her agency’s commitment to ensure the safety of Genetically Modified (GM) crops (GMOs) in the country.
This is even as the DG affirmed that the crops are safe for consumption as they are usually made to undergo it’s strict, rigorous and fool-proof comprehensive Post-Release Monitoring (PRM) framework mechanism.
She stated this during a stakeholder meeting to discuss the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for PRM of GM crops, particularly TELA Maize.
The Head, Information and Communications of NBMA, Mrs. Gloria Ogbaki, quoted the DG as highlighting the agency’s regulatory responsibilities, reinforcing the importance of monitoring GM crops post-commercialization.
“With every innovation comes responsible regulation. We must ensure that these crops, now planted by farmers nationwide, yield the intended results while maintaining safety for human health, biodiversity, and the environment.
“Post-release monitoring is not just a regulatory requirement but a scientific and ethical obligation,” she stressed.
Also speaking, the Acting Director of Biosafety Enforcement and Operations, Mrs. Hauwa Tahir highlighted the objectives of the meeting.
“The agency seeks to understand the experiences of farmers, assess the performance of GM crops, and identify any challenges post-commercialization. This process is critical in ensuring the long-term safety and effectiveness of GM technology in our agricultural sector,” she stated.
Daily Independent gathered that the purpose of the meeting was to provide a platform for stakeholders, experts, and industry representatives to discuss the draft SOPs and propose enhancements to strengthen the PRM framework for better efficiency.
NBMA equally reiterated its open-door policy, which encourages collaboration and input from all stakeholders to ensure a robust monitoring system.
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