Advocacy Groups Demand Review of GMO Approvals in Nigeria

Advocacy groups in Nigeria, including the Health of Mother Earth Foundation and Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, are demanding a comprehensive review of genetically modified organism (GMO) approvals. They warn that the existing biosafety regulatory framework may undermine biodiversity and food sovereignty, particularly affecting indigenous farming systems.

Nnimmo Bassei, Executive Director of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation, cautioned against reliance on external agricultural technologies, stressing Nigeria's responsibility to protect its food systems. The groups are advocating for stronger transparency mechanisms, wider public participation, and independent scientific assessments regarding biosafety decisions.

They have called for a suspension of new GMO approvals pending long-term independent peer-reviewed studies that cover health, environmental, agricultural performance, and socio-economic impacts. The recommendations also include rigorous feed trials and environmental impact assessments to ensure safety and sustainability.

Joyce Brown, Program Director at the Health of Mother Earth Foundation, noted that Nigeria is at a crossroads regarding its agricultural and food security policies.