Kenya, July 31 -- Dr. Chinonso Egemba, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, has ignited a firestorm of debate in Nigeria after advocating for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to tackle the nation's agricultural challenges, including pest resistance and low crop yields.
In a 14-minute video posted on his social media platforms, Egemba emphasised GMOs' potential to boost food security, citing innovations like pest-resistant maize and nutrient-enhanced Golden Rice.
However, his stance, linked to a meeting with Bill Gates, a known GMO proponent, has drawn sharp criticism from Nigerians concerned about health risks, biodiversity loss, and threats to food sovereignty, amplifying tensions in the ongoing national debate over GMO adoption.
Nigeria faces significant agricultural hurdles, with 2024 data from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) indicating that 26.5 million Nigerians are food insecure due to erratic weather, pest infestations, and limited arable land.
Egemba, a medical doctor with over seven million followers across X, Instagram, and YouTube, argued that GMOs could address these issues by increasing yields by up to 20%, as seen in trials of Bt maize in northern Nigeria.
He highlighted successful GMO adoption in countries like South Africa, where genetically modified crops account for 90% of maize production. "We can't ignore science when millions go hungry," Egemba stated, referencing studies from Springer that show GMOs' potential to reduce pesticide use and improve farmer incomes.
Critics, however, are unconvinced, pointing to potential health risks and economic dependency. A 2025 TELL Magazine report noted widespread online backlash, with users on X accusing Egemba of downplaying GMO risks, such as allergies and nutrient deficiencies, flagged by studies in Tandfonline.
Environmentalists argue that patented GMO seeds, controlled by biotech giants like Monsanto, threaten Nigeria's food sovereignty by forcing farmers to buy new seeds annually, disrupting traditional seed-saving practices.
"Aproko Doctor is pushing a corporate agenda," tweeted a Lagos-based activist, echoing sentiments that GMOs could harm smallholder farmers, who make up 70% of Nigeria's agricultural workforce.
The controversy intensified due to Egemba's association with Bill Gates, whose foundation has funded GMO research in Africa. A Nigerian Bulletin report detailed public outrage, with critics questioning whether Egemba's advocacy overlooks ecological impacts, such as soil degradation and crossbreeding with native crops, which could reduce biodiversity.
The Guardian cited studies linking GMOs to health concerns, including increased cancer risks, though evidence remains inconclusive. In response, Egemba clarified that his goal is to spark informed discussions, not blind endorsement, urging Nigerians to weigh scientific evidence against risks. "Food insecurity kills faster than hypothetical fears," he said in a follow-up post.
Nigeria's government has taken steps toward GMO adoption, with the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) approving commercial cultivation of Bt cowpea and TELA maize in 2023. These crops, designed for pest resistance, aim to reduce Nigeria's $5 billion annual food import bill.
However, local challenges like insecurity in farming regions and inadequate funding for agricultural extension services complicate implementation, as noted in a 2025 Medium article. Egemba's supporters argue his platform, built on simplifying health and science for Nigerians, makes him a credible voice to bridge this gap.
His AwaDoc healthtech startup, launched in April 2025, further underscores his commitment to accessible solutions, though critics see his GMO stance as a departure from grassroots advocacy.
The debate reflects broader tensions in Nigeria's agricultural policy. While some farmers in Kaduna and Oyo states report higher yields from GMO trials, others, backed by groups like the Health of Mother Earth Foundation, demand stricter regulations and transparency.
Egemba's role as a trusted influencer, cemented by his 2023 brain tumour recovery story and partnerships with firms like Bochepharm Pharmaceuticals, amplifies his influence but also scrutiny.
His 2024 solar power donation to Epe General Hospital showcased his community focus, yet detractors argue his GMO advocacy risks alienating his 1.4 million X followers who value local farming traditions.
As Nigeria navigates this polarised debate, Egemba's push for GMOs underscores the challenge of balancing innovation with cultural and economic priorities.
With the government planning further GMO rollouts, the controversy surrounding Aproko Doctor highlights the need for transparent dialogue to address Nigeria's pressing agricultural challenges.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.