Public health experts and food sovereignty activists are calling on the Nigerian government to stop the introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) into the nation’s food system, arguing that their use infringes on the right to safe food.
The call was made during an online event organized by the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) on Wednesday to mark World Food Day 2024. The event focused on the impact of agricultural biotechnology on consumers, farmers, and the environment.
Joyce Brown, a public health expert and HOMEF’s Director of Programmes, emphasized that most Nigerians reject GMOs due to their health, environmental, and economic risks. She urged the government to reconsider GMO policies through a human rights lens, noting that continued approvals violate citizens’ right to safe food.
Environmental rights advocate Barr. Mariann Bassey-Orovwuje highlighted the lack of effective labeling for GMOs, which prevents consumers from making informed choices. She also raised concerns about farmers’ reliance on biotechnology companies for seeds, undermining traditional seed-saving practices.
Dr. Segun Adebayo, Deputy Director at the Centre for Food Safety, criticized the flawed approval process for GMOs in Nigeria, noting inadequate public information and transparency. He called for a review of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) Act to address regulatory gaps.
Molecular biologist Dr. Ifeanyi Casmir further warned that GMOs increase pesticide use, harm biodiversity, and contribute to antibiotic resistance, all of which threaten food security and environmental safety.
The event concluded with a call for the government to promote agroecology and support smallholder farmers as sustainable alternatives to GMOs.
