The Federal Government, through the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), has declared four genetically modified (GM) cotton varieties illegal, citing violations of established biosafety regulations.
The affected products Mic 561 Bgii, Mic 563 Bgii, Bioseed-Fiyah Ch1001, and Bioseed-Fiyah Ch1002 — were flagged following regulatory surveillance and compliance checks that revealed significant irregularities.
In a statement, NBMA spokesperson, Gloria Ogbaki, said investigations showed the cotton varieties were registered on March 26, 2026, by the National Committee on Naming, Registration and Release of Crop Varieties, Livestock Breeds and Fisheries without the mandatory approval of the agency, as required under the National Biosafety Management Act 2015 (as amended).
Unauthorised Trials and Release
Further findings indicated that confined field trials and related activities involving the transgenic cotton varieties were conducted without prior authorisation, inspection, or oversight by NBMA.
“At no time did NBMA grant approval for confined field trials, multi-locational trials, or the commercial release of these genetically modified cotton varieties,” Ogbaki stated.
She emphasized that under the law, no individual or institution is permitted to carry out such activities involving genetically modified organisms (GMOs) without explicit clearance from the agency, warning that any breach constitutes a violation of national biosafety regulations.
Immediate Regulatory Action
In response, NBMA has directed the relevant committee to suspend all actions relating to the registration and release of the affected cotton varieties pending the outcome of ongoing investigations.
The agency also indicated that appropriate regulatory sanctions would be applied in line with existing laws.
Public Assurance
Despite the regulatory concerns, NBMA assured the public that there is currently no evidence of immediate risk to human health or the environment. The agency noted that all necessary steps are being taken to maintain safety and regulatory integrity.
Reaffirming its mandate, NBMA stated its commitment to ensuring that all biotechnology activities in Nigeria comply strictly with national legislation and international best practices.
The development underscores growing scrutiny of genetically modified products in the country, as regulators seek to balance innovation with safety and compliance.
