The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to introduce mandatory labeling of genetically modified (GMO) crops, aligning with international safety norms and aiming to strengthen consumer transparency. The move, spearheaded by the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), will apply to both locally produced and imported GMO-derived food products.
Nigeria has approved 33 GMO crop events, placing it among the top African nations in approvals, although currently only four crops—beans (cowpea), maize, cotton, and rice—are commercially cultivated.
The NBMA notes that existing GMO products meet international safety standards, yet the lack of proper labeling has contributed to public mistrust. The new labeling initiative aims to help Nigerians make informed food choices and bridge the trust gap between consumers and regulatory stakeholders.
Nigeria’s progressive biosafety framework, built on the NBMA Act of 2015, supports the safe adoption of biotechnology. This regulatory backbone and now the labelling reform reflect the country's commitment to responsible agricultural innovation and consumer rights.
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