The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Customs Service Board (NSCB) on effective regulation of genetically modified products at the nation’s borders.
The NBMA Head of Press, Ms Gloria Ogbaki, who disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, said the MoU was aimed at ensuring that importers and exporters of GMOs and their products complied with the terms and conditions of NBMA permit, NBMA Act (2015), Biosafety regulations, Biosafety guidelines and other relevant extant laws.
According to her, the MoU also provides for the impounding of GMOs or their products imported or exported without biosafety permit.
“As part of the agreement, both parties shall involve each other in the review of all regulatory laws relating to biosafety and ensure that areas of cooperation, monitoring of ports and borders are in synergy between them.
“The MoU is expected to foster collaboration between the agency and the Nigerian Customs Service Board for effective regulation of genetically-modified organisms and their products.
“It is expected to reduce and/or eliminate the smuggling and piracy of GMOs in Nigeria through joint activities,” Ogbaki said.