The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) are set to collaborate to promote the safe growth of Nigeria’s biotechnology sector and strengthen the financial systems that enable research, investment and commercialisation.
The Director General of NBRDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, stated this on Wednesday in Abuja when he led a delegation from the Agency on a courtesy visit to the CEO of the NFIU, Ms Hafsat Bakari.
Prof. Mustapha said the engagement was timely, following the Federal Executive Council’s approval of the Revised National Biotechnology Policy 2026 on 19 August. He noted that the policy places greater emphasis on inter-agency collaboration in areas where biotechnology intersects with national development, financial integrity and security.
He explained that as Nigeria’s biotechnology ecosystem expands, increased investments, research funding, technology transfer, specialised equipment, biological materials and cross-border transactions will require appropriate safeguards to protect legitimate research and investment, particularly as some biotechnology equipment, materials and technologies have dual use applications.
Prof. Mustapha proposed the establishment of a Joint Technical Working Group between NBRDA and NFIU to develop specific areas of collaboration, including lawful information sharing, joint proliferation financing risk assessment, capacity building, and regulatory and data system alignment.
Responding, the NFIU CEO commended NBRDA for its work in advancing biotechnology research and innovation.
She welcomed the proposals and expressed the NFIU’s readiness to work with NBRDA.
Ms Bakari said the recommendations were in line with the mandate of the NFIU, noting that the growth of biotechnology will bring increased investments, research funding, intellectual property, technology transfer and financial transactions requiring transparency, accountability and integrity.
The partnership is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s biotechnology ecosystem, promote investment, protect innovation and support the commercialisation of research for greater economic and social benefits.