The Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (BSN) says groundbreaking progress is being made toward finding cures for diseases encoded in human DNA, including sickle cell anaemia, hepatitis B, and HIV/AIDS.
National President of BSN, Sylvia Uzuochkwu, disclosed this on Tuesday at the opening of the society’s 37th Annual International Conference in Umudike, Abia State. The conference is themed “Innovative Biotechnology for National Growth: Pathways to Food Security, Health and Environmental Sustainability.”
Uzuochkwu explained that the association continues to advocate for the safe application of biotechnology to advance healthcare, ensure sustainable food security, and protect the environment.
She noted that the success of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic was a practical demonstration of biotechnology’s power to save lives.
“Modern biotechnology has revolutionised healthcare, with procedures such as gene therapy becoming increasingly routine for curing genetic diseases,” she said.
Agricultural Impact
The BSN president also highlighted agricultural breakthroughs such as Bt cowpea and TELA maize, which reduce pesticide use, increase crop yield, and improve export potential. She added that biotechnology is also being applied in environmental management, with innovations such as pest-resistant crops and oil-spill-cleaning bacteria helping to protect farms and waterways.
Turning Science into Solutions
Speaking at the event, Chiedozie Egesi, Executive Director of the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, said biotechnology is being used to address real-life agricultural challenges.
“We are turning science into solutions that matter for farmers, markets, and households,” Egesi said.
He noted that NRCRI has pioneered the release of over 50 improved cassava varieties, 30 yam varieties, 10 potato varieties, four sweet potato varieties, and two ginger varieties, all designed for higher yield, disease resistance, and adaptability.
The opening ceremony also featured a keynote lecture by Prof. Nwadiuto Esiobu and the presentation of awards to distinguished members of the association.
The conference underscores the growing role of biotechnology in transforming healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability in Nigeria.
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