The House of Representatives Committee on Science and Technology has called on the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) to ensure that all Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) products are clearly labeled for consumers, following global standards.
During a budget discussion, NABDA’s Director-General, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, defended GMOs, stating that 90% of maize in the U.S. is GMO. He mentioned that some Nigerians are resistant to GMOs, but not everyone shares that view.
However, committee member Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante disagreed, stressing that Nigerians need clear labeling so they can make informed decisions about what they consume.
He pointed out that in other countries, consumers have choices, but in Nigeria, labeling is lacking.Mustapha also presented NABDA’s proposed 2025 budget, which totals N5.3 billion.
This includes N834.4 million for overhead costs and N14.5 million for personnel. The agency has about 4,000 staff across 39 centers nationwide. Other agencies, including the Trypanosomiasis Research Institute, PRODA, NBTI, and NOTAP, also presented their budget proposals to the committee.
