Biosafety stakeholders honour late icon
By Abigael Joshua
Environmental stakeholders met in Abuja on Thursday to honour the late Prof. Diran Makinde for strengthening biosafety frameworks in Africa.
Makinde, who was the former Head of the African Biosafety Network of Expertise (ABNE) died at the age of 70.
Dr Rufus Ebegba, Founder of the Rufus Ebegba Centre for Leadership and Environmental Sustainability (RECLES) said Makinde made immense contributions to the development of biosafety systems in Africa.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the memorial lecture was organised by RECLES in collaboration with the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).
“In recognition of him as one of Africa’s icons who was instrumental in the robust biosafety frameworks enjoyed in most countries on the continent today, this memorial lecture is being organised to honour him as a great friend.
“He served with passion for science, technology, and innovation as key drivers for economic growth and social development in Africa, in addition to entrenching holistic biosafety on the continent.
“Prior to his work in biosafety, the ‘African Biosafety Model Law’ was adopted by some African Union member states, leading to stiff regulatory systems that were not workable.
“His intervention allowed for freedom to innovate, develop, and regulate advanced biotechnology for greater economic growth and agricultural advancement,” Ebegba explained.
Dr Jean-Baptiste Tignegre, AATF representative for West Africa, said that Makinde left a lasting legacy and made huge contributions to biosafety across Africa.
Prof. Jeremy Ouedraogo, Head of ABNE, who succeeded Makinde, noted that his predecessor left behind a strong foundation on which to advance biosafety initiatives in West Africa.
Dr Agnes Asagbra, Director-General of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), represented by Mr Abisabo Adamu, Principal Scientific Officer at NBMA, stated that Makinde’s legacy as ABNE’s pioneer head would not be forgotten.
“He was a visionary leader who understood biosafety and biotechnology in addressing some of Africa’s pressing needs.
“He ensured that Africa was not left behind in global discussions on biosafety issues”.
Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, Director-General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), emphasised that celebrating Makinde’s life and achievements was truly worthwhile.
Mustapha was represented by Dr Rose Gidado, Director of the Agricultural Biotechnology Department.
He noted that Makinde’s legacy continues to inspire the agency in its efforts to advance biosafety in Africa and beyond.
Prof. Olamide Makinde, daughter of the late professor, expressed gratitude to the stakeholders for organising the memorial lecture, adding that her father had a deep passion for Africa and biosafety. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
Published By
Has also recently published
General NewsFebruary 21, 2025ActionAid calls for climate justice, social equity
Economy/BusinessFebruary 21, 2025Five candidates cleared for AfDB presidency race – Committee
General NewsFebruary 21, 2025Take tough decisions to make Africa better, Tinubu tells leaders
General NewsFebruary 21, 2025Tinubu commends Babangida for admitting Abiola’s June 12 victory
