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MEDIA PRACTITIONERS ADVOCATE  INTENSIVE SENSITIZATION TO DEEPEN BIOTECHNOLOGY KNOWLEDGE AMONG RURAL FARMERS

MEDIA PRACTITIONERS ADVOCATE INTENSIVE SENSITIZATION TO DEEPEN BIOTECHNOLOGY KNOWLEDGE AMONG RURAL FARMERS, SAYS GM CROP SAFE FOR CONSUMPTION

Media practitioners have called on the  National Biotechnology Development Agency( NABDA) and other scientists involved in developing and promoting Biotechnology in the country, to scale up sensitization among rural farmers. This, they said will deepen the knowledge of modern biotechnology, as well as mitigate the fears that people have about Genetically Modified (GM) crops.

The Senior Editors,  representing various media organizations, who recently visited a PBR Cowpea production Research farm in Abuja, also disclosed that their findings have revealed that Genetically Modified crops are safe for both human consumption and also healthy for the environment. Dr Bridget Onochie, Abuja   Bureau Chief of the  Guardian  Newspaper, said the fears and clouds of doubt that still surround biotechnology in the country, could be dispelled by more strategic Communications and deliberate sensitization campaigns among rural farmers. 

She noted that biotechnology knowledge and information that do not trickle down to the grassroots may not achieve the desired result. She said, “Let the farmers know that it is cheaper to farm the Bt Cowpea and that it has more yield than the conventional and many people can benefit from it.  Therefore the need to inform farmers is crucial since they are 

residents in rural areas”.

Mrs Grace Yusuf who retired from NAN, also mentioned that contrary to the previous impression that the bt cowpea is dangerous, she has come to know that they are safe for consumption. She also made emphasis on the need for more sensitization. Because most farmers in rural areas are not aware of this significant technology.

However, Dr Leon Usigbe Bureau Chief Nigerian Tribune, also buttress the importance of adequate communication of the vital research work done, with the people who need it.

In addition, Dr Leon, commended the research institutions involved for the remarkable work done, by eliminating the major insect that destroys the cowpea. Because peasants farmers toy day and night but in the end the yield would be small.

Knowing that the bt cowpea can be harvested as much as 4 times it’s a great breakthrough for farmers and Nigeria as Nation would become food secure.

In a related event,  the Director General Prof Abdullahi Mustapha who had addressed the Senior Editors at a sensitization workshop, Organized by the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) an initiative of AATF, under the auspices of the National Biotechnology Development Agency, said biotechnology was a guaranteed solution to food security in Nigeria. 

Mustapha noted that “Biotechnology as we all know, is a transformative force that holds immense potential to address some of the most pressing challenges facing our nation and the world at large. From healthcare to agriculture, energy to the environment, biotechnology offers solutions that can significantly impact the well-being of our citizens and the sustainability of our resources.

“As editors, you play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and disseminating information. The power of media in shaping narratives and public perception cannot be overstated. Hence, your role in communicating agricultural biotechnology to the masses is crucial for fostering understanding, dialogue, and informed decision-making”.

This News Update was compiled by Sarah Iliya Mela, you can contact: saratuiliyasu1@gmail.com