How Tinubu’s Approved GMO Initiative Might Kill Nigerians

Bola Tinubu has recently approved and introduced the TELA Maize Variety, a new strain of Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) seeds. This is developed at the Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR) at Ahmadu Bello University in collaboration with the African Agriculture Technology Foundation (AATF).

Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and other global partners, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, says that the government’s goal is to improve the welfare, health, and security of Nigerians.

“We are dedicated to promoting initiatives that will benefit our people and ensure a stable food supply,” Abdullahi stated at the launch.

Some analysts have risen quickly to tackle the adoption of this initiative emphasising its implication in the long run.

With Nigeria becoming the second African nation to approve GMO maize for commercial planting, following discussions between Bill Gates and President Bola Tinubu, the aim is to boost maize production and enhance food security. Despite these promises, there are serious concerns about the potential risks associated with GMOs.

Potential health risks

One of the primary concerns surrounding GMOs is their potential impact on human health. Critics argue that GMOs can cause allergies, antibiotic resistance, and other health issues. Research on the long-term health effects of consuming GMO foods is still inconclusive, raising fears that Nigerians could be exposed to unforeseen health risks.

Environmental concerns

The environmental impact of GMOs is another major issue. GMO crops are often designed to be resistant to pests and herbicides, which can lead to the overuse of chemicals in farming. This not only harms the soil and water sources but also threatens biodiversity. The unintended consequences of disrupting local ecosystems could be devastating, affecting not only wildlife but also human communities that rely on these natural resources.

Economic implications

While proponents argue that GMOs can increase crop yields and reduce food prices, there are concerns about the economic impact on small-scale farmers. Many GMO seeds are patented by large multinational corporations, which can lead to increased costs for farmers who must purchase new seeds each season. This dependency on expensive seeds and related agricultural products could financially strain local farmers, driving them out of business and consolidating the agricultural industry in the hands of a few large companies.

Lack of proper regulation

The implementation of GMOs in Nigeria raises questions about the adequacy of regulatory oversight. Ensuring the safety and proper use of GMOs requires stringent regulation and monitoring, something that critics argue Nigeria is currently ill-equipped to handle. Without robust regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms, the risks associated with GMOs could be exacerbated.

What you should know about GMO

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are plants, animals, or microorganisms that have been altered using genetic engineering techniques to introduce desirable traits such as pest resistance or enhanced nutritional content. 

The benefits of GMOs include increased crop yields, which can help address food shortages, and the ability to resist pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Additionally, some GMOs are engineered to contain higher levels of vitamins and minerals, potentially improving nutritional outcomes.

However, there are significant health concerns associated with GMOs. Some people may experience allergic reactions to GMO foods, and there is a risk that GMOs containing antibiotic-resistant genes could contribute to antibiotic resistance in humans. Environmentally, the impact of GMOs is mixed. 

While they can reduce the need for pesticides, their resistance to herbicides can lead to the overuse of these chemicals, harming soil and water sources. Furthermore, the widespread use of GMOs can reduce biodiversity, potentially disrupting local ecosystems.