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NBMA REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO PREVENT THE MISUSE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH
The Director General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), Bello Bawa Bwari, has reiterated the Agency’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that biotechnology research in Nigeria is conducted safely, responsibly, and in line with global best practices. Bwari made this known during the signing of two landmark Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the NBMA and two leading Nigerian universities, Kaduna State University (KASU) and the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) which held at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
The partnerships reaffirm NBMA’s dedication to promoting collaboration, research, innovation, and capacity building in biosafety and biosecurity, while also enhancing the inclusion of biosciences in advancing food security, evidence-based research, and compliance with global standards.
Speaking at the event, the DG noted that the NBMA was established to safeguard humans, animals, and the environment from the potential risks associated with biotechnology, especially its possible misuse. He stated:
“Biotechnology has both advantages and disadvantages. The National Biosafety Management Agency exists to checkmate these disadvantages, particularly those that may arise from malicious use or intent.”
Bwari emphasised the importance of collaboration between regulatory bodies and academic institutions in strengthening Nigeria’s biosafety framework. He urged the Vice Chancellors of KASU and NOUN to always prioritise the national interest in their institutional engagements, adding that as representatives of the President in their respective universities, their cooperation is vital to achieving timely and impactful outcomes that address Nigeria’s developmental challenges.
He further charged both institutions to ensure that the MoUs go beyond being ceremonial documents, but become fully operational frameworks that drive safe biotechnology practices, research, and innovation.
In his closing remarks, Bwari inaugurated the Joint Technical Working Committees that will guide the implementation of the MoUs. He expressed appreciation to both universities for their partnership and reiterated his administration’s commitment to building a lasting legacy that secures the future of biotechnology, biosafety, and biosecurity in Nigeria.
“Together, we are building safer science and strengthening the foundation for innovation that supports food security, sustainable development, and global competitiveness,” he added.
