Abdullahi Mustapha, Director-General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), has underscored Nigeria’s biodiversity, dynamic population, and advancing technological capabilities as key drivers for leveraging biotechnology to achieve transformative growth. Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday, Mustapha, a Professor of Medicinal Chemistry, highlighted the significant potential of biotechnology to spur economic development.
Mustapha described biotechnology as a vital tool for economic progress, noting its ability to revolutionize industries globally and offer innovative solutions to major challenges. “Biotechnology holds the key to unlocking sustainable development and economic prosperity across various sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, environmental management, and industrial processes,” he said.
The Director-General emphasized the potential benefits for Nigeria’s agriculture sector, noting that biotechnological advancements could significantly enhance food security and productivity. “Adopting genetically modified crops and improving pest resistance can lead to higher yields and reduced reliance on food imports, positioning Nigeria as a major food exporter.”
Mustapha also pointed to biotechnology’s potential impact on healthcare, including the development of new vaccines, diagnostic tools, and therapies to address endemic diseases. “Biotechnology offers the promise of personalized medicine, which tailors treatments to individual patients, improving outcomes and reducing costs. Investment in biopharmaceutical research could create a robust healthcare sector, attracting medical tourism and boosting pharmaceutical exports.”
Additionally, Mustapha highlighted biotechnology’s role in environmental sustainability. “Innovations in biotechnology can address waste management, pollution control, and renewable energy production. Developing biofuels, bioplastics, and bioremediation techniques will help reduce our carbon footprint, protect natural resources, and create green jobs, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.”
