The Federal Government of Nigeria said that the country will leverage in the power of Biotechnology to address crucial National challenges in the nation, ranging from agricultural productivity to healthcare and opening industries for global competitiveness.
Speaking at the facility tour of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), recently in Abuja, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji said that the Agency is an indispensable driver of innovation, economic development and sustainability in Nigeria.
In addition, he said that the mission of the Agency is crucial to driving food security in Nigeria thereby impacting our country’s ability to produce and provide sufficient, safe and nutritious food for our growing population.
The Minister further said that the nation through the National Biotechnology Development Agency, (NABDA) has advanced in genetic technology adoption being the first Country in the world to release Pod Borer Resistant Beans (cow pea) and the second in Africa to deregulate TELA maize.
TELA Maize, he therefore added is a maize that is drought tolerance and insect resistant which also provide protection against stem borers.
Chief Nnaji further stated that the Agency has also introduced new unique equipment to assess the Bio-Methane potentials of biomass which will enable the country move closer to 5% Biomass target. This he added will help provide employment for our youths and women especially in rural areas.
To this end, Nnaji stated that the giant strides made in Biotechnology cotton commercialization will reshape the country’s cotton industry, by enhancing quality and cost-effective pest management.
Earlier, the Director-General of the National Biotechnology Development Agency, (NABDA) Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, said that the mission of the Agency is to promote Biotechnology activities and respond positively to the national aspirations on food security, job and wealth creation, affordable health care deliveries and sustainable environment for socio-economic development of the country.
He further added that the Agency is working tirelessly and strategically to drive progress, create jobs, and improve the lives of countless citizens through the wonders of Biotechnology.

Signed:
Atuora, Obed O.
DD (Press and Public Relations)
26th October,2023.