The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has assured the Nigerian public of the safety of Genetically Modified (GM) crops, emphasizing the implementation of a comprehensive Post-Release Monitoring (PRM) framework.

In a statement released on Thursday, Dr. Agnes Asagbra, a representative of the agency, spoke following a stakeholder meeting focused on the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for monitoring GM crops, with particular attention to TELA Maize. She stressed the importance of the agency’s regulatory role, asserting that diligent monitoring of GM crops post-commercialization is essential.

“With every innovation comes responsible regulation. We must ensure that these crops, now planted by farmers nationwide, yield the intended results,” Dr. Asagbra stated. She further underscored the necessity of safeguarding human health, biodiversity, and environmental integrity, asserting that post-release monitoring is both a regulatory requirement and an ethical obligation.

Mrs. Hauwa Tahir, Acting Director of Biosafety Enforcement and Operations, highlighted the meeting’s objectives, which included evaluating the performance of GM crops, gathering feedback from farmers, and identifying challenges in post-commercialization.

“This process is critical in ensuring the long-term safety and effectiveness of GM technology in our agricultural sector,” Tahir noted. She outlined that the meeting provided a platform for stakeholders, experts, and industry representatives to discuss the draft SOPs and suggest improvements to bolster the PRM framework.

Tahir also reiterated the agency’s commitment to collaboration, encouraging all stakeholders to contribute their insights to ensure a robust monitoring system that supports safe agricultural practices.