OFAB Honours Journalists At 2023 Media Award

The Nigeria Chapter of the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) has recognised Nigerian science journalists who have distinguished themselves in reporting and promoting agricultural biotechnology knowledge and acceptance in the country.

Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, Director General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), explained at the 7th Edition of the OFAB Media Award 2023 and Gala Nite on Thursday in Abuja that the OFAB Media Award was established to honor science journalists who have played critical roles in educating and strengthening public awareness on the importance of agricultural biotechnology in achieving food security.

Mustapha said: “The OFAB Media Award is a testament to the importance of responsible journalism and media communication in this critical field.

“It recognises those who have excelled in their efforts to convey the benefits of biotechnology, at the same time taking into cognisance ethical considerations associated with the technology.

“Your work contributes to fostering dialogue, promoting innovation, and advancing policies that support sustainable agriculture and food security.

“As we stand at the precipice of a future with new challenges and opportunities, we must continue to support and encourage the media in their vital role.

“The decisions we make today regarding biotechnology will have profound consequences for the future of agriculture, the environment, and our society as a whole.”

He noted that the media serves as the bridge that connects the advancements and breakthroughs in agricultural biotechnology to the wider public.

While congratulating the winners of the OFAB Media Award 2023 for their dedication to responsible and informative reporting on agricultural biotechnology, he urged them to keep up the good work.

In her welcome remarks, Dr.Rose Gidado, Director, the Department of Agriculture Biotechnology, NABDA, explained that

the Media Award was a celebration of the remarkable efforts made by journalists and media professionals in informing, educating, and raising awareness about agricultural biotechnology.

She said, “This field holds immense promise for addressing some of the most pressing global challenges, such as food security, climate change, and sustainable agriculture.

“It is through media storytelling that we can 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.

“Over the years, we have witnessed countless stories and reports that have not only enlightened us but have also sparked meaningful conversations and driven policy changes.

“These efforts have had a profound impact on the agricultural landscape, improving the lives of farmers, increasing crop yields, and contributing to the overall well-being of our communities.

“As we gather today to recognise and celebrate excellence in agricultural biotechnology reporting, I would like to acknowledge the tireless work of our journalists and media professionals as well as express our appreciation to the African Agricultural Technology Foundation(AATF) for their unwavering support and commitment to fostering a conducive environment for informed dialogue on agricultural biotechnology and for instituting the award ceremony that recognises excellence in media reporting under the auspices  of the National Biotechnology Development Agency(NABDA).”

Gidado pointed out that in the face of the rapidly growing population, declining agricultural productivity and reduced resources available for agricultural research, policymakers were pressed to make the right decisions as well as looked for guidance from the media.

In his goodwill message, Ukodhiko Jonathan, Deputy Chairman of, the House Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation, said agricultural biotechnology holds the promise of revolutionising agricultural practices, enhancing food security, and mitigating the challenges posed by climate change.

Jonathan assured that the House Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation, was deeply committed to fostering an environment that encourages research, innovation, and responsible application of biotechnology solutions in agriculture.

In his lecture, Mr. Femi Adesina, former Special Adviser to former President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, tasked journalists to be unbiased, neutral, and objective in their reportage of agricultural biotechnology.

Adesina, whose lecture was entitled, “Media Objectivity and the Sanctity of Truth: The Case of GMOs,” charged journalists to be fair, factual, and non-partisan, adding that “Ethical journalists must be committed to the truth in their reportage.

The high point of the event was the awards given to some journalists in the broadcast categories.