By Dele Ogbodo
For promoting biotechnology awareness, adoption and knowledge sharing among others for food security, Nigerian journalists were on Thursday honoured by the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) Nigeria, at its well-attended Media Award ceremony graced by policy makers, scientists, farmers and stakeholders from across Nigeria.
Recall that OFAB-Nigeria came into being to address the unnecessary controversies surrounding the anti-GMO movement in agricultural technology, which became imperative to establish deliberate, well-coordinated communication efforts among the diverse stakeholders involved in modern agricultural technology.
The initiative took a bolder step when the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) in 2009 in collaboration with the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) and the Agricultural Research Council (ARCN) launched the OFAB-Nigeria chapter.
Biotechnology experts say has emerged as a beacon of hope for food and nutrition security, offering innovative solutions to the pressing challenges that the world is grappling with.OFAB
While driving home the import of Biotechnology at the event, the Director General (DG)/Chief Executive Officer for the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, acknowledged that from climate change-induced stresses to the need for increased food production to feed a growing global population, the science of biotechnology has provided the world with tools and techniques to navigate around the complex issues confronting mankind.
The 2023 OFAB Media Award which is the seventh edition receives support from the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) was designed to honour science journalists who play critical roles in educating and strengthening public awareness of the importance of biotechnology in boosting food security.
The Award recognizes those who have excelled in their efforts to convey the benefits of biotechnology taking into cognizance ethical considerations associated with the technology.
Prof. Mustapha, described the theme of the event: “Building a sustainable legacy for media practitioners’ was aptly chosen, stressed that in today’s world, information is power, and the media is our guiding light, he said.
According to him, the media serves as the bridge that connects the advancements and breakthroughs in agricultural biotechnology to the broader public.
He said: “Your work in translating complex scientific concepts into understandable narratives is invaluable. You inform, educate, and empower citizens to make informed decisions about the role of biotechnology in our lives.
“Your work contributes to fostering dialogue, promoting innovation, and advancing policies that support sustainable agriculture and food security.” Prof Mustapha said.
The Director, Department of Agriculture Biotechnology National Biotechnology Development Agency, Dr. Rose Gidado, acknowledged that: “OFAB Media Award which is in its 7th edition, is a celebration of the remarkable efforts made by journalists and media professionals in informing, educating, and raising awareness about agricultural biotechnology.”
According to her, the field holds immense promise for addressing some of the most pressing global challenges, such as food security, climate change, and sustainable agriculture.
She said it is through the media storytelling that we are able to bridge the gap between the science of biotechnology and the broader public, helping them make informed decisions and understand the potential benefits it holds for our society.
She said: “When it comes to biotechnology adoption, most African countries except South Africa became reluctant to adopt biotechnology-derived products as the policy makers became confronted with contradictory sources of information.
“In the face of a rapidly growing population, declining agricultural productivity and reduced resources available for agricultural research, policy makers were pressed to make the right decisions and were looking for guidance from the media.”
Also, speaking, the Deputy Chairman, House Committee on innovation, Science and technology Hon. Ukodhiko Ajiroghene, while commending OFAB, on award initiative said the media serves as a powerful vehicle for disseminating knowledge, fostering understanding, and shaping public opinion. Adding that stakeholders have come to recognize the media’s vital role in bridging the gap between scientific advancements and the general public.
He said: “In the realm of agricultural biotechnology, accurate and responsible reporting is indispensable. It is through your dedication and commitment to informing the public that we can dispel myths, promote awareness, and foster informed conversations about the future of agriculture in our nation.
“Agricultural biotechnology stands at the intersection of science, agriculture, and innovation. It holds the promise of revolutionizing our agricultural practices, enhancing food security, and mitigating the challenges posed by climate change.
“Biotechnological innovations have the potential to create crop varieties that are resilient to pests, diseases, and adverse weather conditions. These innovations can empower farmers, boost agricultural productivity, and contribute significantly to our nation’s economic growth.”
It was indeed an exciting outing for the women as Channels TV Reporter, Serah Achimugu, who came top as the overall winner across the various categories went home with a cheque of N500,000 among other prices at the event.
