The Federal Government/International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, Value Chain Development Programme, VCDP, in Niger State has cautioned farmers against the excessive use of chemicals on crops, both during cultivation and storage, citing serious health risks to consumers.
This warning was issued during a promotion and advocacy campaign against roadside drying of food items held in Doko, Lavun Local Government Area, where the state Business, Marketing and Development Officer of VCDP, Mrs Elizabeth Yisa, linked several health challenges to poor food handling practices.
She expressed concern that despite continuous sensitization, some farmers reportedly still misuse chemicals, posing serious health dangers to the society.
“Many farmers ignore recommended guidelines for chemical application, instead of using the approved measurement mixed with water, some reportedly apply up to six times the required quantity in a bid to accelerate crop growth.
“These chemicals remain in the food even after processing, even as excessive use during storage also puts consumers at risk,” she observed.
Yisa also advised cassava processors to properly fry garri rather than rely on roadside drying, and to use clean and controlled environments where drying is necessary, noting that the programme trains farmers on safe practices across the value chain.
Also, Nurse Leah Yisa of IBB Specialist Hospital, Minna, warned that excessive chemical intake through food and drying food on dirty areas can lead to severe illnesses, including cancers such as leukemia and lung cancer, among others.
“We educated participants on the dangers of excessive chemical use in food production. These substances can accumulate in the body and lead to serious health conditions over time,” she said.
Religious leaders from both Christian and Muslim communities, Pastor David G. and Alhaji Mohammed Alkali m, who attended the advocacy programme, pledged to take the message back to their congregations, raising awareness among farmers and consumers about the dangers of roadside drying and the misuse of agricultural chemicals.
Also, participants, including Mrs Grace and Audu Dazhr, both farmers, decried the habit of exposing food meant for consumption to dirty environments, noting that it endangers both producers and consumers.
They also called for the revival of sanitation teams within local councils to enforce hygiene standards in food processing areas and ensure safer handling of agricultural produce.
VCDP warns farmers against excessive agrochemical use, roadside drying
