By Dele Ogbodo
Its historic moment for Nigerian scientists and researchers as the Federal Government through the National Biotechnology Research Development Agency (NBRDA) has concluded arrangement to hold the maiden international edition of Biotechnology Conference in Abuja, Nigeria beginning from Monday 15, July 2024.
The global conference EXTRAORDINAIRE.com, was informed over the weekend is billed to attract United States, United Kingdom, Ghana, Kenya and over 100 countries, international investors scientists and researchers.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu, former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, who is the chief host will headline the opening ceremony in Abuja.
The Director General/CEO of the agency, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, while addressing the media at the Headquarters of NBRDA in Abuja, said the conference is intended to revolutionise Nigeria’s economic sector and the entire African continent, adding…
‘With a focus on the theme, “Biotechnology as an Engine for Economic Growth,” the conference will further explore the overarching pivotal role of Agriculture Leveraging biotechnology for improved crop yields and sustainable food security.
Regarding, Health, he said: “Harnessing biotechnology for disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
“Environment: Exploring biotechnology solutions for conservation, pollution mitigation, and climate change
“Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering: Advancing research and applications in gene editing, genomics, and synthetic biology
“Industry: Showcasing biotechnology innovations in manufacturing, processing, and product development
“Ethics: Addressing ethical considerations and responsible practices in biotechnology research and application
“Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): Examining policies and frameworks for protecting and managing biotechnology intellectual property”
He acknowledged that the upcoming event promises to be a milestone in Nigeria’s pursuit of sustainable economic development and technological advancement.
According to Mustapha, the conference will bring together leading scientists, researchers, policymakers, industry experts, and entrepreneurs from around the world to discuss and explore the transformative potential of biotechnology in driving Nigeria’s economic growth.
He added: “The key objectives of this conference include: Promoting Innovation and Collaboration: The conference aims to foster collaboration between Nigerian and international scientists, researchers, and industry leaders.
“By facilitating the exchange of ideas and expertise, we hope to stimulate innovative biotechnological solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique challenges and opportunities.”
According to him, one critical area of focus at the conference is agricultural biotechnology, adding: “Will explore how genetically modified crops, improved agricultural practices, and biotechnological innovations can enhance food security, increase crop yields, and support sustainable farming in Nigeria.
“Advancing Healthcare Solutions: The conference will explore the role of biotechnology in improving healthcare outcomes. Discussions will cover the
development of locally-produced biopharmaceuticals, vaccines, and diagnostic tools that can address prevalent diseases in Nigeria and improve public health.
“Environmental Sustainability: Environmental biotechnology will be another critical area of focus. We will examine how biotechnological solutions can address environmental challenges such as pollution, waste management, and renewable energy production, contributing to a greener and more sustainable economy.
“Industrial Growth and Job Creation: The conference will highlight the potential of industrial biotechnology to drive economic diversification, create high-quality jobs, and attract foreign investment.”
The DG, said biotechnological processes can enhance the efficiency and sustainability of industrial production in Nigeria.
These objectives will guide our discussions and actions during the conference, driving progress and innovation in the field of biotechnology, he said.
Mustapha, reiterated that biotechnology advancements have the potential to stimulate the emergence of new industries and employment opportunities, explaining that by showcasing cutting-edge research and innovations in biotechnology, the conference can attract investment and foster the growth of biotech-related businesses.
“This, in turn, can create a ripple effect in job creation across various sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, energy, and industry.
“By staying at the forefront of biotechnological advancements, Nigeria and Africa as a whole can enhance their global competitiveness.
“The knowledge shared at the conference can empower local researchers, scientists, and entrepreneurs to innovate and compete on a global scale.
“This can attract foreign investment, partnerships, and collaborations, further boosting the economic impact of biotechnology advancements.
“In addition, solutions discussed at the conference can have a direct impact on improving the quality of life for citizens, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable development.”
In her vote of thanks, the Director of Agriculture at the agency, Dr. Rose Gidado, who is Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, while expressing her gratitude for the impressive collaboration of staff and the members of the media, noted that the overriding importance of biotechnology in driving growth and improving lives through food security using best international practices cannot be overemphasized.
She acknowledged that Nigeria is rated very high in agriculture biotechnology, adding: “We are at this stage of commercialization and it all due to your efforts in disseminating the right information with scientific facts with evidence based information.”
According to her, biotechnology is a high and precise technology that cuts across all sectors of the economy.