Nigeria’s vice president Kashim Shettima has commended stakeholders for their efforts to advance biotechnology. Shettima was speaking at the inaugural week-long International Conference on Biotechnology 2024 (ICOB24), themed Biotechnology as an Engine for Economic Growth in Abuja, the vice president emphasized the potential of biotechnology to drive Nigeria’s development.
“Biotechnology holds immense promise for our country’s development. It is encouraging to see professionals who have persisted and remained committed to this field, despite challenges,” Shettima said.
Represented by his special adviser on general duties, Senator Aliyu Modibo, Shettima called for perseverance in promoting biotechnology in Nigeria. “We need to work extra hard, endure, and remain committed because the promise is near but requires dedication and sacrifice,” he noted.
In his keynote address, former Cross River State governor, Chief Clement Ebri highlighted the importance of reimagining science for national development. “Utilizing scientific knowledge, innovation, and technology as drivers of economic growth is essential. We must bridge the gap between the lab and real life to envision and build a prosperous nation,” Ebri stated.
A significant contributor to Africa’s GDP growth
Ebri, the former National Biotechnology Research Development Agency (NBRDA) governing board chair, expressed optimism that the conference would propose sector-specific investment models to make biotechnology a significant contributor to Africa’s GDP growth.
Minister for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji emphasized biotechnology’s potential to boost Nigeria’s GDP by increasing the total value of goods and services produced. Nnaji highlighted that the FMIST has prioritized creating a supportive ecosystem for startups, providing necessary mentorship, incubators, accelerators, resources, co-working spaces, and networking opportunities.
“These support mechanisms will enable startups to grow quickly, create jobs, introduce new products and services, and stimulate competition in established industries,” he said.
Represented by the deputy director, Mr Agoro Olayiwola, the minister explained that biotechnology startups are notable revenue generators. “With the emerging supportive ecosystem, Nigeria is poised for higher economic growth driven by licensing agreements, patents, and the commercialization of products and technologies from startups,” Olayiwola added.
Experts attract investors, and with the high-level expertise developed in core biotechnology fields, attracting long-term investors, both domestic and foreign, should not be difficult. “Investors are crucial as they stimulate efficient production and innovation,” Olayiwola said.
Improved crop yields
He expressed confidence that biotechnology could address food insecurity in Nigeria through improved crop yields, drought-resistant crops, and better agricultural practices, but noted that attracting investors is essential.
In his welcome address, the director-general of NBRDA, Prof Abdullahi Mustapha described ICOB24 as a testament to the collective commitment to exploring and harnessing biotechnology’s immense potential as a driving force for economic growth in Nigeria.
“Biotechnology has revolutionized industries across the globe, offering innovative solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity today. From agriculture to healthcare, environmental management to industrial processes, biotechnology holds the key to unlocking sustainable development and economic prosperity,” he said.
Mustapha emphasized that Nigeria, with its rich biodiversity, dynamic population, and growing technological capabilities, is uniquely positioned to leverage biotechnology for transformative growth. “The theme of this conference underscores the critical role that science and technology play in shaping our future,” he stated.
Trigger transformative changes
In her introductory remarks, the chair of the conference’s local organizing committee, Dr Rose Gidado explained that the conference was designed to advance knowledge and foster collaboration in biotechnology for the betterment of humankind. Gidado, the director of the agricultural biotechnology department at NBRDA, said the conference aims to become Africa’s leading innovators’ forum, inspiring the next generation and serving as a hub for policy dialogue at the intersection of scientific inquiry and societal advancement.
Gidado expressed optimism that deliberations at the conference would trigger transformative changes and contribute to creating a future where biotech innovation serves as an engine of eco-friendly and inclusive economic growth. “Let us endeavor to catalyze innovation through dialogue and the triumph of intellect over ignorance,” she said.
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Nkechi Isaac is an Alliance for Science Fellow and Training Team Lead.