The Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Mojisola Adeyeye, has stated that genetically modified organism (GMO) foods are not harmful for consumption.
Speaking in an interview on Channels TV on August 7, Adeyeye explained that the safety of GMO foods depends on the type of food and the measures taken to ensure their safety.
“GMOs are genetically modified foods and they are not bad for us,” she said. “It depends on the type of food and whether safety considerations have been properly observed. The National Bio-safety Management Agency (NBMA) is responsible for ensuring the safety of GMO foods. We work closely with them. They certify that GMO foods are safe and of high quality.
“When you look at grocery stores, you’ll find foods labeled organic and non-organic, and consumers have the choice to pick what they prefer. At NAFDAC, our main goal is to ensure that any food we approve for the market is safe, of good quality, and effective. That’s why our collaboration with NBMA is very strong. Without their certification, we cannot approve any GMO food.”
Addressing concerns about GMO foods entering local markets beyond labeled grocery products, Adeyeye noted that multiple agencies monitor food safety.
“NAFDAC is not the only body responsible for food control,” she said. “State authorities also regulate food safety. When reports come up about issues, we intervene. It’s not NAFDAC’s mandate to sample foods in every market constantly.
“For instance, if palm oil appears too red, it might indicate added dye—usually in packaged products. In such cases, we sample, test, and remove unsafe products. We also conduct extensive awareness campaigns.”
Adeyeye’s comments aim to reassure the public about the safety and regulation of GMO foods in Nigeria.
