Ajirioghene Imah
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control has indicated plans to ban the use of pesticides in the country.
This was revealed by the Director General of the agency, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye in a press release.
According to her, the dangers posed by pesticides are of immersed concern to the Agency and there have been recent concerns from stakeholders.
The statement reads, “Pesticides are applied both indoors and outdoors for the management of pests, vector-borne diseases, and for crop protection. They are sometimes impregnated in textiles, paints, carpets, and treated wood to control pests and fungi. However, the toxicity associated with the misuse and abuse of pesticides is worrisome as it affects food safety and food security. The toxicity of pesticides is managed through stringent regulatory activities to reduce severe health implications on humans, crops, and the environment. This can be achieved through awareness and continual sensitization of stakeholders.
“The mandate of NAFDAC as established by Act Cap N1 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 is to regulate and control the manufacture, importation, exportation, advertisement, distribution, sale, and use of food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, bottled water, detergents, and chemicals (referred to as regulated products). Safeguarding the health of the nation is paramount to the Agency.” She said.
Adeyeye noted that there would be continual sensitization and education of relevant stakeholders, most especially farmers on the safe and responsible use of pesticides, so that they would not be affected by the decisions taken.
