The Coalition of Civil Society and Human Rights Organizations of Nigeria. Led by Comrade Dandaura Takalis, the National Chairman of the Coalition, played host to a significant gathering titled “FARMER FOR GM CROPS” at the Avison Hotel Conference Hall in Garki, Abuja, at an event aimed to foster dialogue and endorsement of the introduction of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) crops in Nigeria. This initiative, prompted by the recent approval of selected species of Cow Pea and Maize by the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), seeks to revolutionize the agricultural landscape of Nigeria, potentially addressing food security challenges and alleviating poverty.
The introduction of GMO crops in Nigeria, particularly the approval of selected species of Cow Pea and Maize by the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), has sparked varied reactions from individuals and organizations across the country. In light of this, the Coalition conducted thorough research on the benefits, safety concerns, and economic implications of adopting GMOs in Nigeria.
After consulting experts in biology, agriculture, biochemistry, biotechnology, and environmental sciences both locally and internationally, the Coalition voiced its support for the introduction of GM crops. They emphasized the potential of GM crops to increase yields and productivity, thereby addressing the challenges of poverty and hunger, especially in rural communities.
Highlighting Nigeria’s alarming poverty statistics, with 40.1% of Nigerians living in poverty and 63% in multidimensional poverty according to the 2022 Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), the Coalition stressed the urgency of implementing measures to combat poverty and achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as No Poverty and Zero Hunger by 2030.
While acknowledging concerns raised by opponents of GM crops, the Coalition urged them to understand the science behind GMOs and refrain from relying on unfounded conjectures and conspiracy theories. Addressing specific concerns, they debunked claims about terminator genes causing sterility and emphasized the safety of GMO crops as certified by regulatory bodies worldwide.
Regarding the availability of GM seedlings, the Coalition proposed business arrangements between farmers and seed sellers to ensure access to seeds for subsequent farming seasons. They also suggested empowering indigenous research institutes like the Agricultural Research Institute (AIR) in Zaria and the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture in Ibadan to mitigate over-dependence on foreign seed companies.
Dismissing claims linking GMOs to allergies and cancer, the Coalition emphasized scientific evidence refuting such allegations. They also addressed the baseless connection between GMOs and insecurity in Northeast Nigeria, stating that poverty, religious/ethnic intolerance, climate change, and economic sabotage were primary drivers of insecurity, not GMO crops.
The press engagement aimed to shed light on the safety and benefits of GM crops and to urge the media to educate the public accordingly. In closing, the Coalition unequivocally endorsed the adoption of GM crops as a crucial step towards ending hunger and poverty in Nigeria.
The event concluded with a resounding endorsement of GM crops by the Coalition, reaffirming their commitment to advocating for policies that promote food security and sustainable development in Nigeria.
