By Iroyin Yoruba Television
LAGOS, November 1, 2026
Farmers and civil society organisations have staged a protest in Lagos, calling for stronger protection of indigenous seed varieties, greater support for smallholder farmers and increased public scrutiny of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Nigeria's agricultural system.
The demonstration took place on October 29, with participants marching from Ikeja Bridge towards the Lagos State House of Assembly to present their concerns to lawmakers.
The protest was organised by the Health of Mother Earth Foundation, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria and the GMO-Free Nigeria Alliance.
The groups argued that Nigeria's agricultural policies should give greater attention to the preservation of traditional seed varieties and the interests of small-scale farmers who depend on locally adapted crops.
The demonstrators submitted their position to officials at the Lagos State House of Assembly. However, they were informed that lawmakers were on recess until November 9.
The campaign has brought renewed attention to the debate over the role of genetically modified crops in Nigeria's food production system and the importance of protecting farmers' choices.
Indigenous seeds have long played an important role in local farming systems. Many farmers rely on varieties adapted to their local environments, rainfall patterns, soil conditions and traditional agricultural practices.
Supporters of indigenous seed preservation say these varieties contribute to agricultural biodiversity and help communities maintain control over important aspects of food production.
They are also concerned about the implications of increased dependence on commercially supplied seeds, particularly for smallholder farmers who may have limited financial resources.
The wider debate, however, involves competing views about agricultural innovation and how new technologies should be assessed.
Supporters of biotechnology argue that genetically modified crops may help address specific agricultural challenges, including certain pests and diseases. They maintain that scientific research and appropriate regulation can contribute to improved agricultural productivity.
Nigeria has an established regulatory framework for modern biotechnology through the National Biosafety Management Agency. Its approval process involves applications, scientific information, risk assessments, expert review and public notices. The framework also provides for monitoring after approvals and GMO labelling requirements.
The presence of a regulatory system has not ended public debate. Campaigners continue to demand transparency, access to information and effective oversight of decisions affecting farmers, consumers and the environment.
For smallholder farmers, the choice of seeds can influence production costs, future planting decisions, access to markets and the ability to save or exchange seeds.
Agricultural experts and policymakers therefore face the challenge of ensuring that farmers receive reliable information about the performance, suitability, cost and conditions attached to different seed varieties.
The discussion also extends beyond genetically modified crops. Nigeria's agricultural sector faces other difficulties, including expensive fertilisers, limited irrigation, inadequate storage facilities, poor rural roads, insecurity in some farming areas and restricted access to affordable financing.
These challenges can reduce farm productivity, increase post-harvest losses and make it more difficult for farmers to earn sustainable incomes.
The Lagos protest has added pressure for a broader public discussion involving farmers, scientists, regulators, seed developers, consumer organisations and government representatives.
Such engagement could help ensure that decisions about agricultural technology are based on accessible scientific evidence while recognising the practical needs and rights of farmers.
As the debate continues, the concerns raised by the demonstrators highlight the importance of protecting agricultural biodiversity, strengthening smallholder farming and maintaining public confidence in Nigeria's food production policies.
The next stage will depend on continued engagement with policymakers and the availability of clear information to help farmers and consumers understand the choices facing the country's agricultural sector.