Biotechnology can solve Nigeria’s food security issues

Nigeria must urgently tap into the power of biotechnology to address challenges in food production, healthcare, and economic growth, according to Professor James Chukwuma Ogbonna, Vice Chancellor of the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences, Igbo-Eno, Enugu State

Speaking at the 37th International Conference of the Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (BSN), held in Umudike, Ogbonna stressed the need for the country to take bold steps towards adopting biotechnology innovations. The conference, themed “Innovative Biotechnology for National Growth: Pathways to Food Security, Health and Environmental Sustainability,” brought together key stakeholders to explore solutions to Nigeria’s development challenges.

According to Ogbonna, biotechnology is central to tackling major global and national issues such as hunger, energy supply, disease management, and environmental protection. He pointed out that although Nigeria currently lacks the economic and technological strength to fully withstand foreign pressures, the country can only secure its future by aligning with global scientific progress without compromising cultural values.

“We will best be able to protect ourselves from undue influences only if we advance technologically and economically to the point of being globally competitive,” he said.

He called for stronger research efforts and the need to push biotechnology discoveries into commercial use. Ogbonna argued that showcasing the economic value of biotechnology would help attract more investments from both the government and private sector. He also noted the BSN’s role in promoting collaboration, highlighting the existence of cross-institutional research groups. However, he urged for more targeted research, better funding, and proposals that focus on Nigeria’s local needs.

He expressed concern about Nigeria’s heavy dependence on South-North collaborations, which he said often result in research led by foreign agendas with minimal relevance to local priorities.

On education, he urged the government to increase investment in biotechnology training and infrastructure. He encouraged BSN to strengthen ties with key institutions and agencies to improve education and research.

Ogbonna concluded by appreciating attendees and expressing hope that the conference would help re-examine Nigeria’s biotechnology sector and steer the nation toward becoming a knowledge-driven, tech-based economy.