THE National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) and the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) have awarded some Nigerian journalists who have distinguished themselves in reporting agriculture biotechnology and innovative technologies in food production.
The duo also commended Nigerian journalists for their contribution to fostering dialogue, promoting innovation, and advancing policies that support sustainable agriculture and food security.
Director-General/CEO, NABDA, Profesoor Abdullahi Mustapha, while speaking at the seventh edition of the Open Forum of Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) in Abuja, with the theme: ‘Building a sustainable legacy for media practitioners’, said the media serves as the bridge that connects the advancements and breakthroughs in agricultural biotechnology to the broader public.
He said: “In today’s world, information is power, and the media is our guiding light.
‘’Your work in translating complex scientific concepts into understandable narratives is invaluable.
‘’You inform, educate and empower citizens to make informed decisions about the role of biotechnology in our lives. Your work contributes to fostering dialogue, promoting innovation, and advancing policies that support sustainable agriculture and food security’’.
Also, the Director of the Agricultural Biotechnology Department at NABDA, Dr Rose Gidado, said the media holds huge promise for addressing some of the most pressing global challenges, such as food security, climate change and sustainable agriculture.
She said when it comes to biotechnology adoption, most African countries except South Africa became reluctant to adopt biotechnology-derived products as the policy makers became confronted with contradictory sources of information.
‘’It is through the media storytelling that we are able to bridge the gap between the science of biotechnology and the broader public, helping them make informed decisions and understand the potential benefits it holds for our society.”
‘’In the face of a rapidly growing population, declining agricultural productivity and reduced resources available for agricultural research, policy makers were pressed to make the right decisions and were looking for guidance from the media’’, she said.
The OFAB Media Award was set aside to celebrate science journalists who play critical roles in educating and strengthening public awareness of the importance of biotechnology in boosting food security.
Sarah Achimugu of Channels won 1st position in Television category, while Achanya Favour Ada of AGTV came second.
Others are Blessing Ituma and Chinasa Ossai of FRCN, while Ibrahim Isah of BBC won DG’s prize.
