Minister Salako Champions Biotechnology, Debunks GMO Myths At Abuja Workshop
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
In a push for innovation grounded in safety, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has called for stronger investment in biotechnology and biosafety frameworks, saying the technologies offer immense potential to revolutionise healthcare, agriculture, and nutrition.
Speaking at a sensitisation workshop held in Abuja, Dr. Salako noted that the country must embrace cutting-edge solutions like genetic modification to achieve food security, improve diagnostics, and tackle endemic diseases — all in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He debunked long-standing myths around Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), citing over 2,000 scientific studies and endorsements from global science bodies confirming their safety. “We must shape our policies based on evidence, not fear or vested interests,” he stressed.
Salako reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to ethical innovation, promising collaboration with regulatory bodies like NBMA and NAFDAC to ensure GMO foods are properly labeled and safe. “Let facts lead our narrative,” he urged, calling for open dialogue and stronger partnerships to harness biotechnology for national development.
The event brought together key stakeholders and is expected to shape future policy directions on biotechnology and biosafety in Nigeria.
