The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has called for greater investment in agricultural biotechnology and scientific innovation to strengthen food security, improve farmers’ productivity and reduce food losses across Nigeria.
The agency’s Director-General, Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, made the call at the 60th Annual Conference and Diamond Jubilee of the Agricultural Society of Nigeria, held in Abuja from October 20 to 22, 2026.
Mustapha stressed that Nigeria’s agricultural challenge was not a lack of scientific discoveries but the difficulty of translating research findings into practical solutions that farmers could adopt on a large scale.
He explained that biotechnology could improve agricultural production through better planting materials, rapid diagnostic tools for crop and livestock diseases, biofertilisers, biopesticides and technologies designed to reduce post-harvest losses.
According to him, making these innovations widely available would require stronger collaboration among research institutions, universities, government agencies, private investors and agricultural businesses.
The NBRDA chief also highlighted climate change, emerging pests and diseases, land degradation, water shortages and disruptions to global supply chains as threats to Nigeria’s food system.
He called for wider adoption of climate-smart farming practices, improved water management, soil restoration and early-warning systems to help farmers respond to changing environmental conditions.
Mustapha further emphasised the importance of effective agricultural extension services, accessible financing, quality assurance and reliable infrastructure in ensuring that research breakthroughs translate into tangible benefits for farmers.
He maintained that farmers should be involved in developing agricultural technologies rather than being treated merely as recipients of innovations.
The agency also identified opportunities for young Nigerians in genomics, bioinformatics, precision agriculture, digital agricultural services and food processing, urging stakeholders to create an environment that supports innovation and investment in these areas.
The call comes amid continuing concerns over food prices, agricultural productivity and the need to improve the availability of safe and nutritious food across the country.
The NBRDA believes that combining scientific research with stronger industry partnerships and wider technology adoption could help improve farmers’ livelihoods, strengthen food supply chains and support Nigeria’s long-term food security.
