The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confiscated over N800 million worth of banned pesticides in a series of coordinated raids carried out across Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Oyo States.
This operation, aimed at curbing the illegal distribution of hazardous agrochemicals, led to the seizure of 551 cartons of toxic pesticides across more than 16 retail outlets.
The banned substances, including Chlorpyrifos, Paraquat, and Atrazine, were found to contain highly dangerous chemicals that pose severe health risks.
NAFDAC has warned that these pesticides are not only carcinogenic but can also lead to respiratory failure, liver and kidney damage, among other serious health issues.
A statement from the agency revealed that the raids, conducted over several days, targeted shops suspected of engaging in the illegal sale of these harmful substances.
The operation resulted in the seizure of large quantities of chemicals that have either already been banned or are scheduled for future bans.
Chlorpyrifos, for example, will be banned from November 1, 2024, while Paraquat has already been banned as of January 1, 2024, and Atrazine is set to be banned by January 1, 2025.
NAFDAC’s Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, emphasized the grave implications of the continued use of these banned pesticides, not only for public health but also for Nigeria’s agricultural exports.
The presence of these chemicals in locally produced crops has led to the rejection of Nigerian agricultural products in international markets, damaging the country’s trade reputation.
“These substances are not only a danger to human health but are also detrimental to Nigeria’s standing in international trade.
The continued use of these pesticides threatens our agricultural export markets, with countries rejecting products that contain trace chemicals,” the statement read.
In response to the findings, NAFDAC has urged the public to be vigilant and take extra care in verifying the sources of agrochemical products before purchasing.
The agency also called on Nigerians to report any unauthorized sales of harmful chemicals to the nearest NAFDAC office to help protect both public health and the nation’s economy.
NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health through stringent enforcement of regulatory standards, continuing its proactive surveillance of the agrochemical market.
The agency also reminded the public of safer alternatives to the banned pesticides, including Flushout, Sharpshooter, and Best, which are recommended for use in agriculture.
“NAFDAC will continue its monitoring and enforcement efforts to ensure that only safe products reach the market and the public,” the statement concluded.
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