The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) is excited about the Federal Executive Council’s (FEC) approval of the updated National Biotechnology Policy 2026.
In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, Toyin Omozuwa, the press secretary of NBRDA, said the new policy aims to use biotechnology better for Nigeria’s economic and national growth.
She mentioned that this revised policy was approved during a FEC meeting on Wednesday led by President Bola Tinubu. This update comes 25 years after the original biotechnology policy from 2001, reflecting advancements in science and technology.
The agency noted that the new policy will boost biotechnology research, development, application, and commercialization in agriculture, healthcare, industrial production, and environmental sustainability.
Omozuwa pointed out that the framework sets the path for new technologies, including precision agriculture, climate-smart technologies, advanced manufacturing, gene editing, and genomics.
She also shared that the approval includes the Nigeria Biotechnology Partnership, which formalizes Nigeria's role in the Global Biotechnology Partnership. This partnership is expected to enhance Nigeria’s access to international collaboration, expert knowledge, and investment opportunities in biotechnology.
Ms Omozuwa quoted the Director-General of NBRDA, Abdullahi Mustapha, as saying that this approval gives the needed policy direction to boost research and promote technology transfer and commercialization.
“This approval marks an important chapter in Nigeria’s biotechnology development,” Mr Mustapha stated.
He added that the policy would encourage innovation, attract investments, and increase biotechnology's role in national development by turning research results into practical solutions and economic chances.
Mr Mustapha said that NBRDA will work with relevant government bodies, research groups, universities, industries, and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the revised policy.
He emphasized that the agency will focus on converting the policy provisions into technologies, products, and services that can tackle critical national issues.
The NBRDA chief praised Mr Tinubu for his commitment to promoting innovation, science, and technology in Nigeria.
He noted that this approval shows the administration’s recognition of biotechnology as a vital tool for Nigeria’s economic and national development.
Mr Mustapha also commended the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Udeh, for his dedication and ongoing support for biotechnology growth.
He expressed hope that the revised policy would lay a stronger foundation for Nigeria to use biotechnology for sustainable development and economic growth.
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