NBRDA, MAUTECH Hold Sensitization Workshop on Biotechnology and Biosafety

The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), in collaboration with Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola, has organized a one-day sensitization workshop on Biotechnology and Biosafety with the theme: “Empowering the Next Generation: Youth Driving the Future of Agricultural Biotechnology in Nigeria.”

Declaring the workshop open, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Iliyasu Audu, welcomed the Director-General/CEO of NBRDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, his team, and other participants to the university on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Umar. 

He stressed the importance of biotechnology and biosafety in national development, noting that empowering young people to drive the future of agricultural biotechnology is critical to addressing food security challenges. Prof. Audu further assured NBRDA of the Vice-Chancellor’s continued support for innovative and impactful initiatives.

He was joined at the event by the Registrar, Alhaji Mustafa Migawa, the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, and other members of the university management.

In his opening remarks, the DG/CEO of NBRDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, expressed delight in being part of the sensitization workshop specifically designed for students and youths at the Chevron Biotechnology Centre, MAU Yola. 

According to him, the theme of the workshop underscores the vital role of youths as emerging leaders in leveraging biotechnology to enhance food security, improve livelihoods, and promote sustainable agriculture.

Prof. Mustapha highlighted the responsibility of students as advocates of science, urging them to counter misinformation and disinformation on genetically modified crops. 

He cautioned that false claims spread rapidly and risk undermining the progress that scientific innovations can bring.

The workshop featured presentations by senior staff of NBRDA, testimonies from farmers on the benefits of biotechnology, and interactive sessions with participants and field trip.

In her vote of thanks, the Director/Coordinator of the Chevron Biotechnology Centre, MAU, Yola Prof. Anna Malgwi, appreciated the leadership of NBRDA for partnering with the university and acknowledged the Vice-Chancellor’s unwavering support in making the workshop a success.