Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) by pledging not to develop, produce, acquire, or retain biological weapons. This stance aligns with the international community’s efforts to combat the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to implementing the (BWC)’s tenets at a Stakeholders Forum in Abuja. Nigeria signed the (BWC) on July 10, 1972, and has since demonstrated its commitment to upholding the convention’s principles.
Also, the Federal Government has established an inter-ministerial council under the National Authority on Chemical and Biological Weapons Conventions (NAC&BWC) to facilitate policy guidance and direction on (BWC) implementation. This council comprises 42 members from various ministries, agencies, private sectors, and academia. The Chief of the Biological Weapon Convention Implementation Support Unit in Geneva, Daniel Feakes, commended Nigeria’s comprehensive implementation of the convention, which has contributed to reducing the proliferation of small arms and dangerous weapons.
Agency responsible for safe handling of bio agents.
Dr. Agnes Yemisi Asagbra, Director-General/CEO of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), expressed gratitude for the government’s support and assured the nation’s biosecurity. Biological arms, also known as biological weapons, are harmful microorganisms or toxins used to cause disease or death in humans, animals, or plants. The proliferation of these weapons poses threats to public health, national security, and global stability. Nigeria’s commitment to the convention demonstrates its dedication to preventing the development, production, and use of biological arms, aligning with international efforts to promote disarmament and non-proliferation.
Its implementation in Nigeria is crucial for preventing the misuse of biological agents, ensuring biosecurity, and enhancing national security. The government’s stance serves as a model for other nations, promoting global efforts to ban biological arms and foster a safer world. In Nigeria, the NBMA plays a vital role in ensuring the safe handling and management of biological agents. The agency works closely with various stakeholders, including research institutions, healthcare facilities, and industries, to prevent the unauthorized use of biological materials. The NBMA also collaborates with international organizations to stay abreast of global best practices in biosafety and biosecurity.
Challenges in implementing the convention in Nigeria.
Major advancements in the country’s biosafety and Biosecurity sector have also occurred through the country’s commitment. The government has established several laboratories and research facilities to enhance the country’s capacity for disease surveillance and diagnosis. These facilities have enabled Nigeria to respond effectively to Public Health threats, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Further, Nigeria has strengthened its legal framework to prevent the proliferation of biological weapons. The country has enacted several laws and regulations to criminalize the development, production, and use of biological arms. The government has also established a robust enforcement mechanism to ensure compliance with these laws and regulations.
Despite the progress made, Nigeria still faces challenges in implementing it. The country needs to enhance its capacity for disease surveillance and diagnosis, particularly in rural areas. Nigeria also requires additional resources to strengthen its biosafety and biosecurity infrastructure. To address these challenges, the government has sought international support and collaboration. Nigeria has partnered with organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) to enhance its capacity for biosafety and biosecurity. The country has also received technical assistance from developed countries to strengthen its legal framework and enforcement mechanism.
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In addition, Nigeria has established a national biosafety framework that outlines the country’s approach to biosafety and biosecurity. The framework provides guidelines for the safe handling and management of biological agents, as well as measures for preventing the unauthorized use of biological materials. Nigeria’s commitment to the (BWC) has also led to increased awareness and Education on biosafety and biosecurity among stakeholders. The government has organized several workshops and training programs for researchers, healthcare professionals, and industry personnel on the safe handling and management of biological agents.