Food Security: US Launches Biotech Training For Nigerian Agro-scientists

The United States Mission in Nigeria has launched a training programme for Nigerian scientists and regulators on modern biotechnology in the area of agriculture to boost food productivity in the country.

The training course which is basically online, will be conducted by the Foreign Agricultural Service of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) in collaboration with Iowa State University (ISU).

The goal of the training is to strengthen bilateral ties between the United States and Nigeria and assist policymakers, researchers, and technical experts to understand the role of modern biotechnology in agricultural innovation.

According to a statement from the US Consulate General’s Public Affairs Section, the training titled “Agri biotech and seed systems in Asia and Africa,” will commence on Monday, February 21, 2022.

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The counselor for Agricultural Affairs, US Mission Nigeria, Gerald Smith, said the participants will be able to identify and share ways in which agricultural innovations can advance food security, and the trade policies – including information that will assist farmers to access technologies.

Smith said, “ISU’s Seed Science Center is partnering with USDA’s FAS to offer a four-month virtual training course on agricultural biotechnology. This training course will focus on biotechnology research, policies and regulations, management, and public outreach components as well as biotechnology related trade issues.”

The Agricultural Affairs Counselor said the Center is a world-renowned institution in biotechnology development, training, research, and management. He added that the goal of the Center’s global outreach program is to enhance food and nutritional security, environmental quality, and economic development while facilitating seed trade.

The Foreign Agricultural Service is the overseas arm of the United States Department of Agriculture. It offers a variety of services to American and Nigerian agribusiness companies, government and non-government entities involved in agricultural trade and development. Through a variety of programs, the service helps developing countries strengthen sustainable agricultural practices by providing capacity building opportunities.