The GMO-Free Nigeria Alliance, representing over 200 individuals and organizations—including farmers, civil society groups, scientists, nutritionists, legal practitioners, and medical experts—has urged the National Assembly to impose a comprehensive ban on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Nigeria.
This call was made during a public hearing organized by the House Committee on Agricultural Production, where the alliance expressed serious concerns regarding the impact of GMOs on the nation’s food systems, human health, and environmental sustainability.
They also suggested that external entities promoting GMOs have exacerbated insecurity in the country.
In a memorandum presented to the committee, consultant Johnson Ekpere emphasized the need for an immediate halt to GMO distribution and proposed a national moratorium until conclusive evidence regarding their safety is established.
"The notion that Nigerians can be subjected to harmful practices without accountability fuels institutional arrogance," he stated.
Ekpere criticized the government's reliance on GMOs as a quick fix for agricultural issues, warning that such an approach poses significant risks to Nigeria's food sovereignty, biodiversity, and public health.
He advocated for a transition towards agroecology, which includes organic and regenerative farming practices that have proven to be sustainable alternatives.
The memorandum also pointed out the lack of productivity gains from GMOs in Nigeria. The National Cotton Association of Nigeria (NACOTAN) reported no significant yield increases from GM cotton seeds since their introduction in the 2020/2021 farming season.
Farmers have expressed concerns that GMOs lead to reduced productivity in subsequent planting seasons, compelling them to purchase new seeds annually.
Furthermore, the alliance highlighted research indicating that GM crops may undergo unexpected nutritional changes, potentially reducing beneficial compounds while increasing allergenic substances.
They referenced Burkina Faso's decision to phase out GM cotton in 2016 due to quality issues, despite similar varieties being approved for use in Nigeria.
