FG to embrace Biotechnology for improved Healthcare

The Federal Government has announced plans to adopt biotechnological innovations in Nigeria’s healthcare system, aiming to combat endemic diseases, improve maternal and child health, and raise the overall quality of life for Nigerians.

This was made known by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, during a sensitization workshop on Biotechnology and Biosafety held in Abuja.

He said the Ministry would ensure a strong biosafety framework is in place to earn public trust and allow ethical use of biotechnology in the health sector.

“In healthcare, biotechnology opens doors to innovative diagnostics, new therapeutics, precision medicine, regenerative medicine, immunotherapy, and preventive measures, especially vaccine production using DNA recombinant technology,” Dr. Salako stated.

Highlighting the importance of science in the national development goals under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Minister urged collaboration between stakeholders and policymakers to ensure that biotechnological solutions reflect Nigerian values and address critical needs, such as food security and better healthcare delivery.

He also addressed widespread concerns about Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), clarifying that there is no scientific evidence linking GMOs to cancer or other health complications.

“Over the past 30 years, more than 2,000 thorough studies have confirmed that GMO foods are just as safe as conventional ones,” he said, referencing global scientific support from institutions like the US National Academy of Sciences and the Union of German Academies of Sciences and Humanities.

Dr. Salako added that in 2012, 110 Nobel laureates declared that genetically improved crops are as safe, if not safer, than those developed through traditional farming methods, mainly due to the rigorous checks they undergo.