AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
Agricultural stakeholders have expressed deep concern over the growing rejection of Nigerian food exports abroad due to high levels of pesticide residues.
The development has not only raised serious health concerns over local consumption of chemically-laden food items but is also dealing a heavy blow to farmers and the national economy.
Reports indicate that Nigeria loses more than $362 million annually to the rejection of its food exports on account of pesticide contamination.
Experts warn that while Nigeria’s farmlands appear lush, beneath the greenery lies a dangerous over-dependence on toxic chemicals.
The pesticides used for weed control and crop preservation are described as highly hazardous and corrosive, posing risks to both human health and the environment.
The Alliance for Action on Pesticides in Nigeria (AAPN) disclosed that over 23,400 metric tonnes of pesticides are imported into the country annually, with more than 90 per cent of farmers relying on these harmful substances in crop production and post-harvest preservation.
AAPN’s Lead Coordinator, Donald Ofoegbu, revealed that over 76 per cent of Nigeria’s agricultural exports are rejected by the European Union on safety grounds linked to pesticide residues.
Environmental expert, Prof. Babatunde Bolaji Benard, noted that while pesticides have contributed to higher yields, their long-term consequences far outweigh the short-term benefits.
He urged the adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which combines biological, cultural, and minimal chemical practices, as a safer and more sustainable alternative.
Stakeholders are calling for urgent government action to regulate pesticide use, strengthen monitoring systems, and promote safer farming practices to safeguard public health and protect Nigeria’s agricultural exports.
