Latest News

Biotechnology key to solving food security challenges — UniAbuja VC

Published by

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Lar Patricia Manko, has described biotechnology as a vital tool for addressing Nigeria’s mounting food security challenges.

Speaking through Professor Dan-Kishiya at a public lecture on agricultural biotechnology, Manko emphasized the urgent need to harness science and innovation to transform the country’s agricultural landscape.

The event, held at the University of Abuja and organized in collaboration with the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), and the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) in Nigeria, brought together policymakers, researchers, and students to explore the role of biotechnology in sustainable agriculture.

“Agriculture in Nigeria faces monumental challenges. Food insecurity, climate change, pest infestations, and soil degradation threaten the livelihoods of millions. Yet, within these challenges lie opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and transformation,” Manko said.

ALSO READ: Women, catalysts for development of Niger Delta — NDDC MD

She highlighted the University of Abuja’s leadership in biotechnology and biosafety research, referencing the groundbreaking PhD work of Dr. Abraham Isah, an alumnus of the university.

Dr. Isah’s pioneering study on the environmental safety of transgenic cowpea—integrating proteometabolomic and ecotoxicogenomic analysis—received global recognition and was honored at the International Society for Biosafety Research (ISBR) symposium in St. Louis, USA, in 2023.

“The innovative approach taken by Dr. Isah has provided a critical framework for assessing the ecological impact of genetically modified crops. This is a testament to the University of Abuja’s growing influence on global agricultural policy and scientific advancement,” she noted.

Professor Manko expressed gratitude to the university’s partners—AATF, NBRDA, and OFAB—for their commitment to advancing biotechnology in Africa.

She urged students and faculty to fully engage with the lecture, encouraging them to see themselves as key players in the future of Nigerian agriculture.

“This gathering is not just about dialogue; it is a call to action. Let us dream boldly and act decisively to cultivate a Nigeria where no family goes hungry, where farmers thrive, and where our fields flourish,” she added.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE

Recent Posts

APC Kaduna endorses Tinubu, Uba Sani, Abbas for second term

They convened at the auditorium of the Federal University of Education in Zaria for this…

5 minutes ago

2027: Ex-Nasarawa deputy gov urged to join guber race

A coalition of Nasarawa State Youth has called on Dr Silas Ali Agara, the former…

14 minutes ago

FG, state govt urged to construct coastal highway along River Benue

Former Commissioner of Finance in Benue State and President/Founder of Apa Legacy Sustainability Initiative, Dr…

47 minutes ago

Bauchi govt urges free blood donation to save lives

"blood donation is all about saving lives. We urge people to Imbibe the spirit of…

59 minutes ago

Oshiomhole vs Air Peace: Nigerian airline operators grapple with mounting burdens

The recent escalating dispute between the former governor of Edo, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and the…

1 hour ago

UK warns citizens against traveling to Israel amid raging Iran-Israel conflict

The United Kingdom government has advised citizens of the country against travelling to Israel, saying...

1 hour ago

Welcome

Install

This website uses cookies.