The National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) has urged Nigerians to verify information about Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) from credible sources before spreading false reports.
In a statement by Dr. Rose Gidado, Director of the Agriculture Biotechnology Department at NABDA, it was emphasized that information about GMOs can be confirmed through reputable organizations such as the National Science Academies, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Academy of Sciences.
The statement addressed rumors regarding the safety of the newly launched genetically modified organism, Tela-Maize, labeling them as misleading. According to NABDA, Tela-Maize underwent rigorous scientific scrutiny before its release this year. It was developed by Nigerian scientists at the Institute for Agricultural Research, Zaria, under the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria, facilitated by the African Agricultural Technology Foundation, and approved by the National Biosafety Management Agency.
“The National Committee on Naming, Registration, and Release of Crop Varieties, Livestock Breeds, and Fisheries is responsible for registering and releasing crop varieties and animal breeds. They have established criteria that must be met, and they confirmed that Tela-Maize meets these standards, including resistance to stem borers and fall armyworm, and providing high yields for farmers,” the statement read.
NABDA highlighted that farmers can achieve about 10 tonnes per hectare with Tela-Maize, further solidifying its benefits and safety for consumption.
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