Perception and Acceptance of GMOs in Nigeria: Cultural, Media and Policy Dimensions

Abstract

Agricultural biotechnology, particularly genetically modified organisms (GMOs), has been promoted as a solution to food insecurity and climate stress in Nigeria. However, despite policy adoption of Bt cotton, pod borer–resistant cowpea, and TELA maize, public perception and acceptance remain polarized due to cultural, religious, and media influences. This study examines how awareness, cultural values, media framing, and policy communication shape public perception and acceptance of GMOs in Nigeria, highlighting the gap between regulatory policy and societal attitudes. The study employs a qualitative documentary analysis, reviewing peer-reviewed literature, policy documents, and media reports from 2010 to 2024. Sources were selected from Scopus, Web of Science, AJOL, Google Scholar, government publications, and national media outlets using content analysis to identify themes linking perception, culture, media, and policy. Results show that public awareness of GMOs in Nigeria is low, with perceptions strongly mediated by cultural and religious beliefs, negative media framing, and limited trust in regulatory institutions. While government policies promote biotechnology adoption, weak science communication and policy ambiguity reinforce skepticism. Comparative insights from Kenya, South Africa, and Europe demonstrate that trust, transparent regulation, and effective communication are critical to shaping acceptance. The study concludes that GMO acceptance in Nigeria is constrained not by scientific capacity but by societal perceptions shaped by culture, media, and weak policy communication. It recommends culturally sensitive engagement strategies, strengthened science communication in the media, and improved regulatory transparency to build public trust. The study contributes to African scholarship on biotechnology governance and offers.