•seeks collaboration with int’l organisations on food security
By Christiana Ekpa
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has assured of National Assembly’s unwavering commitment to developing in-house capacity for the advancement and utilization of biotechnology innovations in crop improvement.
Kalu who gave the assurance on Monday while declaring open the maiden conference of the Nigerian Plant Breeders Association (NPBA), in Abuja, said the lawmakers have taken significant strides in that direction with the recent passage of the Plant Variety Protection Act 2021.
The Deputy Speaker stated that the conference themed, “Advancing Plant Breeding Through Biotechnology Innovation: Fostering one Health and Nigeria’s Agenda 2050,” underscores the imperative for Nigeria to embrace innovation, particularly in the realm of biotechnology, to drive precise and efficient crop improvement for sustainable agricultural growth.
While commending plant breeders for their efforts which enable farmers to have access to diverse crop varieties, Kalu noted that it is incumbent upon the government to commit to funding agricultural innovations, thus motivating breeders to continue their crucial work.
He advised the country’s plant breeders to explore ways in which they can contribute to global food security, such as collaboration with international organizations and sharing best practices, as it will be instrumental in achieving Agenda 2050 goal.
