GUIDELINES ON BIOSAFETY AND BIOSECURITY IN NIGERIA

What Is This Policy?

National guidelines establishing biosafety and biosecurity standards for the handling of biological agents, GMOs, and hazardous biological materials.

Who Does It Target?

Laboratories, research institutions, biotechnology companies, and public health agencies.

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Strengthen regulatory and policy frameworks, improve public outcomes, and ensure compliance with national and international standards.

Key Features

Framework Standards: Establishes clear standards and guidelines Compliance and Oversight: Provides compliance and monitoring mechanisms Public Benefit: Designed to protect public interest and improve outcomes

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Active/Under implementation or legislative consideration Coverage: Nationwide Lead Agency: Relevant Federal Ministry or Agency

How to Access

Implemented through relevant government agencies. Guidelines and compliance information available through the responsible ministry or agency.

Impact & Metrics

Strengthens institutional, legal, and regulatory capacity in the relevant sector.

Official Resources

Website: nass.gov.ng Contact: Relevant Federal Ministry/Agency, Abuja

Legal Framework

Issued under the authority of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NABMA) pursuant to the National Biosafety Management Agency Act 2015. Operates alongside the NAFDAC Act (biological products), the National Health Act 2014, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) Act 2018, and the Biological Weapons Convention. Aligns with WHO Laboratory Biosafety Manual (4th Edition), the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, and IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations for biological substances.