Nasarawa: The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has disposed of 57 cartons of unauthorized transgenic hybrid cotton seeds weighing approximately 950kg, in adherence to its mandate to enforce Nigeria’s biosafety laws. The disposal took place in Auta Balefi, located in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, at the agency’s designated dump site.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Director-General of NBMA, Dr. Fatima Zuntu, stated that the disposal was a result of thorough intelligence gathering, surveillance, compliance monitoring, and investigations conducted by the agency. Investigations traced the transgenic hybrid cotton seeds back to Fiyah Global Concept Limited, which introduced and managed the seeds without obtaining regulatory approvals as required by the NBMA Act and relevant regulations governing Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).
Dr. Zuntu clarified that the situation was a regulatory compliance breach rather than a safety incident, emphasizing that the unauthorized activities did not pose any threat to human or animal health, or the environment. The agency has imposed administrative sanctions on Fiyah Global Concept Limited in accordance with the law, a move that highlights NBMA’s dedication to protecting Nigerians, safeguarding biodiversity, and ensuring strict adherence to biosafety regulations.
Dr. Zuntu reiterated that no individual, institution, or organization is above the law, and the agency is committed to enforcing biosafety regulations impartially. She reaffirmed NBMA’s support for safe research, innovation, and the application of modern biotechnology, provided that all regulatory requirements are met. Furthermore, she urged researchers, seed companies, institutions, developers, and other operators involved in biotechnology to secure the necessary approvals before undertaking any activities involving GMOs in Nigeria.
In addition, Dr. Zuntu called on journalists and media organizations to report biosafety issues accurately and responsibly to enhance public understanding and prevent misinformation. She underscored the agency’s commitment to ensuring that biotechnology activities in Nigeria meet the highest standards of safety, accountability, transparency, and public interest.
Dr. Zuntu acknowledged the support of the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON) for their collaboration in the successful disposal exercise. She stressed that NBMA would continue to work with relevant government institutions and stakeholders to protect public health, preserve the environment, and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s biosafety regulatory system.
Dr. Yakubu Baba, Registrar of EHCON, described the exercise as a proactive measure aimed at curbing the illegal importation of genetically modified seeds and other uncertified seeds into Nigeria. He added that the exercise was intended to promote a healthier and safer environment for all Nigerians.