The Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) has urged the Nigerian government to halt the release of Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) food products and instead invest in organic food seedlings. This call aims to preserve local food varieties and ensure the availability of healthy food options.<\/p>\n
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At a media dialogue focused on preserving healthy local foods and seeds, Joyce Brown, Project Lead for Hunger Politics at HOMEF, emphasized the lack of proven benefits of GMOs for Nigeria’s growth. Brown highlighted the risks associated with GMOs, including potential impacts on human health, the environment, and the economy, as well as the rising incidences of non-communicable diseases like cancer and kidney failure linked to diet and food imports.<\/p>\n
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Research shows that up to 38 food products in Nigerian markets contain GMOs, with 24 being new entrants, indicating a 60% increase in GMO products due to consumer ignorance. Brown advocated for the promotion of locally produced food crops, which are healthier, and urged the government to support local farmers with infrastructure, credit, and land access.<\/p>\n
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Dr. Jacqueline Ikeotuonye, a healthy living advocate, stressed the need for proper product labeling to indicate GMO contents, enabling consumers to make informed choices. She warned against pesticide-infested foods, which contribute to diseases like cancer and kidney failure, and encouraged individuals to grow their vegetables.<\/p>\n
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Food advocate Miriam Bassey warned that importing GM seedlings threatens Nigeria\u2019s food sovereignty and the preservation of local varieties. She emphasized the importance of communities having access to nutritious, affordable, and culturally relevant food.<\/p>\n
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Dr. Hauwa Mustapha, speaking from a farmer’s perspective, noted that farmers prefer local and organic seedlings but face challenges accessing them. She called on the government to prioritize organic farming and reduce chemical use, respecting the knowledge and experience of local farmers to maintain food security and soil health.<\/p>\n
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The collective message from HOMEF and its partners is clear: prioritizing organic farming and supporting local food production are essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s food security and health.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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