By Dele Ogbodo
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has tasked Nigerian Journalists to deploy their scientific reportage and know-how of Science Technology to impact the African continent as outlined in African Union Agenda 2063.
Speaking at the 2024 Award for Science Journalists organized by the Open Forum for Agriculture Biotechnology (OFAB) in Abuja on Tuesday, the Minister admitted that the various governments across the continent have acknowledged the importance of integrating S and T into their development agendas as outlined in the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
However, he noted that many have not gone beyond the organization of conferences and workshops, adding that unfortunately, many of these plans have remained on paper.
Nnaji, said: “This is where I urge our science journalists to turn their focus: from simply talking about these issues to pushing for the actual implementation of these policies. The time for action is now.
“Every day, hundreds of highly trained scientists leave Nigeria in search of better opportunities abroad.
“We are, in effect, producing doctors and researchers for the developed world while many of our own hospitals are struggling with shortages of personnel.
“This is not the future we envisioned for our country.”
He said there is for us to ask ourselves, why should our best and brightest serve foreign economies while our own needs remain unmet?
This is a critical issue that the media must highlight, adding that it is time for our governments to implement deliberate policies that promote science and technology and provide the motivation and incentives necessary for our scientists to stay and contribute to the development of Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
The Minister, said: It is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to congratulate our distinguished media practitioners, who have shown remarkable perseverance and dedication in contributing to the growing body of knowledge on modern scientific developments across our continent.
“I would like to commend the OFAB for establishing this prestigious award, which continues to recognize, train, and equip journalists with the skills they need to compete with their peers from other parts of the world.
“The journalists we are here to celebrate today are not only champions of their craft but also true advocates for the promotion of science and technology in Nigeria.”
He acknowledged that these awardees have played a vital role in publicizing our nation’s contributions to the global scientific community, and for that, they deserve our highest accolades.
“More significantly, these journalists have taken on the challenge of simplifying complex scientific concepts—translating them into language that even an illiterate farmer can understand.
“By doing so, they empower farmers to apply modern agricultural advancements, resulting in tangible benefits on their farms.
“This is a tremendous contribution to our nation’s food security and agricultural development.” He said.
However, the Minister, said the vision to drive development through science and technology will remain just an agenda discussed in workshops and conferences unless every part of our society starts recognizing the critical role that science and technology plays in our daily lives.
On japa syndrome, he added: “Every day, hundreds of highly trained scientists leave Nigeria in search of better opportunities abroad.
“We are, in effect, producing doctors and researchers for the developed world while many of our own hospitals are struggling with shortages of personnel.
He urged the media to highlight this, adding: “It is time for our governments to implement deliberate policies that promote science and technology and provide the motivation and incentives necessary for our scientists to stay and contribute to the development of Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
He said: “Another area I challenge the media to spotlight is the promotion of local content.
“Despite facing limitations in resources and facilities, Nigerian scientists continue to innovate. When they succeed, it is our duty to publicize their achievements, encouraging them to keep pushing boundaries.
“We must avoid unnecessary criticism that discourages innovation and instead celebrate every breakthrough as a step forward in our national development.
“I have followed, with great interest, the needless debates that have plagued our efforts to integrate science and technology into Nigeria’s development plans.”
The Minister acknowledged that there is no such thing as “Nigerian science” or “foreign science.” adding that science is a global endeavor, and Nigeria will continue to explore its potential to improve the lives of our citizens, especially in the areas of food security and nutrition.
“As we gather tonight to honor the winners of the OFAB Media Awards, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all who will receive recognition. With victory comes greater responsibility, and I urge you to continue the work that has brought you this success.
“To those who may not win tonight, I say do not be discouraged—tomorrow could be your moment to shine. Keep pushing forward, and your hard work will be rewarded.” He added.
The Director General (DG) National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, in his opening remarks said: “I stand here as a proud promoter of the vital role that agricultural biotechnology plays in transforming our agricultural landscape.
He said biotechnology has emerged as a beacon of hope in the field of agriculture, offering Nigeria and the world innovative solutions to the pressing challenges that we face today.
He said: “From climate change-induced stresses to the need for increased food production to feed a growing global population, the science of biotechnology has provided us with tools and techniques to navigate these complex issues.
According to him, the theme of the event, Inform, Educate, Inspire: Celebrating Exceptional Agricultural Biotech Reporting is aptly chosen, adding that in today’s world, information is power, and the media is our guiding light.
The media, he said serves as the bridge that connects the advancements and breakthroughs in biotechnology to the broader public.
“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.
“I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for the dedication and hard work of journalists, media professionals, and communicators who tirelessly explore the realm of agricultural biotechnology. Your role in disseminating accurate, unbiased, and evidence-based information is essential. You help to counter misinformation and ensure that the public discourse surrounding biotechnology is well-informed and constructive.
“The OFAB Media Award serves as a testament to the importance of responsible journalism and media communication in this critical field. It recognizes those who have excelled in their efforts to convey the benefits, risks, and ethical considerations associated with biotechnology. Your work contributes to fostering dialogue, promoting innovation, and advancing policies that support sustainable agriculture and food security.
“As we stand at the precipice of a future with new challenges and opportunities, we must continue to support and encourage the media in their vital role. The decisions we make today regarding modern biotechnology will have profound consequences for the future of agriculture, the environment, and our society as a whole.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the winners of the OFAB Media Award.
“Your dedication to responsible and informative reporting on agricultural biotechnology is commendable, and I encourage you to keep up the great work.” Mustapha, said.
Also in his own remarks, the Minister of Health Dr. Adekunle Iziaq, who was represented by a Director in the Ministry, pointed out that biotechnology holds immense promise for the advancement of healthcare, agriculture, environmental sustainability, and various other sectors, adding that it has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach challenges, and it is imperative that we harness this potential in a responsible and safe manner.
Iziaq, said: “As we gather here today, it is paramount that we address the important issue of biosafety.
“Ensuring that biotechnological innovations are developed, tested, and deployed in a manner that minimizes risks to human health and the environment is of utmost importance.
“Through robust biosafety measures, we can foster public trust in biotechnological advancements and pave the way for their widespread acceptance and beneficial impact.”
The Minister, said: “It is essential that we engage in open and transparent dialogue with all stakeholders, including researchers, industry representatives, policymakers, and the public, to ensure that the development and deployment of biotechnological solutions align with societal values and needs.
“Nigeria can only become a food secure and by implication, Africa’s ‘Blue Zone’ where people live long and achieve more, if we adopt modern technologies to enhance the way we produce our foods. This is the core of the Renewed Hope of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
He said Tinubu, had recently ordered every sector of engagements in the country to seek ways of making science relevant to the country, adding, that a country, we believe in and are guided by science, hence the adoption of Genetic Modification of crops for food security.
It is important to shed some light to clear some of the unfounded anecdotes that have put the products of Genetic Modification known as Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in bad light.
‘They have said GMOs are not safe, adding that they cause cancers and other unsavoury health outcomes in individuals. This remains one of the unfounded lies by anti-GMOs groups who, it has been found, are running the shows for some ‘big clients. It must be pointed out clearly that, GMO foods are carefully studied before they are sold to the public to ensure they are.
“There are loads of scientific evidence that GMOs are as safe as the foods we currently eat and that they do not affect you differently than non-GMO foods.
Since the introduction of GMO crops over three decades ago, there have been more than 2,000 studies to evaluate the health and related aspects of genetically engineered products.
“Findings by majority of these studies have found nothing to indicate that GM foods possess a health threat.
“In fact, the consensus among scientists is that gene altered crops offer no more risk than those developed through conventional breeding techniques.” He said.
While not one mainstream independent science or health organization has expressed unique concerns with GM foods, he added that a small number of scientists and many anti-GMO activists have dedicated their time to disputing the body of scientific consensus.