NBMA: NBMA & NOUN Unite to Strengthen Biosafety and Biosecurity Collaboration.

The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) and the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) kicked off a 3-day train-the-trainer workshop aimed at boosting collaboration to protect Nigeria's ecosystem. Representing NBMA's Director General/CEO, Bello Bawa Bwari, Acting Director of Biosecurity Department, Dr. Agha Ukpai Agha, emphasized the need for synergy to safeguard the nation's biodiversity. Bwari highlighted that NBMA's role isn't to stifle innovation but to ensure safe use of biotechnology. "We conduct thorough risk assessments before approving any GMOs," he assured, adding that the agency won't hesitate to enforce the NBMA Act against breaches.

He reaffirmed NBMA's commitment to working with stakeholders to shield Nigeria from unregulated biotech products. In a welcome address, Vice Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor technology innovation and research, Prof Christine I. Ofulue, stressed that collaboration between NBMA and NOUN is imperative. "The job of Biosafety and biosecurity rests on everyone," he said, calling for all hands on deck to protect Nigeria's ecosystem. He emphasized the critical role of education and research in promoting biosafety and biosecurity, highlighting NOUN's commitment to supporting NBMA's efforts. Prof. Uduma urged participants to leverage the workshop to strengthen ties and drive impactful initiatives. The workshop featured expert presentations, technical sessions, and discussions on strengthening Nigeria's biosafety framework.

The workshop identified areas for improvement, paving the way for enhanced biosafety measures in Nigeria. The Management of NBMA also paid a courses to the VC of NOUN and they were received by the DVC academic who pledged commitment to strengthening the partnership and to ensuring that the workshop is cascaded and a curriculum is developed for the intellectual development of the citizenry. NATIONAL SAFETY: NAFDAC HONOURS NBMA DG AS AGENCIES DEEPENS COLLABORATION. The Director-General/CEO of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), Bello Bawa Bwari, led a delegation from the Agency on a strategic visit to the headquarters of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), in a move that further deepens collaboration between the two key regulatory bodies.

The visit reaffirmed both agencies shared commitment to safeguarding public health, strengthening food and drug safety systems, and promoting responsible scientific innovation. Discussions underscored the importance of sustained cooperation in tackling emerging challenges within Nigeria’s biosafety and regulatory landscape. A memorable highlight of the visit was the presentation of an award by the Director-General of NAFDAC, Moji Adeyeye, to DG Bello Bawa Bwari in recognition of his exemplary leadership and meritorious service. The honour celebrated his professionalism, dedication, and significant contributions to advancing biosafety regulation in Nigeria. The visit concluded on a forward-looking note, with both agencies reaffirming their resolve to deepen strategic collaboration for the greater good of the nation