Agricultural Biotechnology: Youths Challenged to Combat Misinformation

Misinformation and disinformation surrounding the safety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s food security, a university official has warned. Speaking at a recent workshop, Professor Iliyasu, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Modibbo Adama University Yola, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibrahim Umar, said tackling this issue is a top priority. “This […]

Misinformation and disinformation surrounding the safety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s food security, a university official has warned.

Speaking at a recent workshop, Professor Iliyasu, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Modibbo Adama University Yola, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibrahim Umar, said tackling this issue is a top priority.

“This project is very significant considering the fact that we are grappling with food insecurity in our nation,” Professor Iliyasu stated.

“There is a wide array of misinformation going out, so the aim is to sensitize our youths so they can help us counter it, especially regarding the safety of genetically modified foods.”

The workshop, tagged “Empowering the Next Generation Youth: Driving the Future for Agricultural Biotechnology in Nigeria,” was organized by the university in collaboration with the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) and the African Agricultural Biotechnology Foundation.

According to Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, the Director-General of NBRDA, agricultural biotechnology offers proven solutions to Nigeria’s food challenges.

He cited field studies that showed genetically engineered crops like BT cowpea and improved maize varieties have led to a 50% increase in yields while also boosting farmer income and reducing the need for pesticides.

“These are not abstract promises; they are real, on-farm results that are already changing lives,” another speaker noted, adding that biotechnology aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

The DG NBRDA,warned that public skepticism, fueled by misinformation, remains a major obstacle.

He challenged youths to become advocates for science in their communities by using evidence from farmer testimonies and trial data, translating complex science into simple language, and engaging communities directly through social media and public forums.

He pledged to support training programs to equip young communicators with the necessary tools to build public trust in biotechnology.

He emphasized that youths are not only leaders of tomorrow but of today, urging them to lead the charge in using science to expand opportunities and secure food for the nation.

The event brought together students, journalists, and other stakeholders to highlight the vital role of young people in advancing biotechnology.