GMO: Biosafety Agency Reviews Guidelines
The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has commenced the review and validation of some of its guidelines to strengthen the nation’s biosafety system.
Dr. Rufus Ebegba, Director General of NBMA, said at the opening of the review and validation meeting that the exercise includes the NBMA Risk Analysis Framework which details risk assessment- a precondition for the release of any Genetically Modified Organism (GMO).
“The guideline encompasses risk management plans and strategies to be employed if any potential risk arises from the practice of modern biotechnology.
“The guideline aims to strengthen the enforcement system for proper regulation.”
Other guidelines being reviewed are Administrative Manual, Communication Strategy, National Biosafety Emergency Response, Biosafety Information Manual, Institutional Biosafety Committee Guidelines, Biosafety Laboratory Manual and Inspection Guidelines.
He added that the Biosafety Laboratory Manual ensure the accurate analysis of GMOs and the guaranteed safety of personnel working in the laboratory.
Ebegba thanked all the stakeholders present especially the media for accurate dissemination of information on issues of biosafety in the country.
He noted that the media still have a lot to learn in terms of relating issues of biosafety to the general public.
This review and validation meeting involves stakeholders from different Ministries, Departments and Agencies who are involved in the National Biosafety Framework.
During the presentation on NBMA Communication Strategy, Gloria Ogbaki, stressed on the need for proper and effective communication among stakeholders.
Ogbaki said: “This is therefore not the time to get bogged down with fears, inconsistencies and lethargy and Nigeria cannot afford to stand aloof or be left behind in this fast growing world.”
She said that bio-safety communication strategy would require all stakeholders to effectively pass on their messages as regards the issues of bio-safety foods, backed by credible scientific evidence.
She said: “Debates and arguments going on out there among the public surrounding GMOs are caused by a lot of misconceptions.”