NAFDAC decries use of counterfeit agrochemicals for farming, poultry
At a recent farmers’ forum in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) reiterated the dangers associated with the use of fake agrochemicals and pesticides, particularly in poultry and crop production. The forum, titled “Best Practices to Maximise Profits in Poultry Business”, was hosted by Karma Agric Feeds and Foods Ltd in partnership with the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Ebonyi Chapter.
NAFDAC’s State Coordinator, Mr. Emeka Orajaka, emphasized that misuse and indiscriminate application of unapproved agrochemicals endanger public health and undermine the integrity of the entire agri-food value chain. He called on farmers to strictly purchase agrochemicals from verified dealers, highlighting the lingering health risks of chemical residues in poultry and crops consumed by humans.
Karma Agric’s National Sales Manager, Mr. Peace Obawo, stressed the importance of correct feed and medication usage in maximizing profitability. He cautioned that counterfeit agro-inputs not only harm birds and plants but also erode the long-term profitability of agri-enterprises.
A poultry farmer, Ms. Joy Egbo, expressed appreciation for the knowledge shared and committed to adopting only approved agrochemicals.
Source: Vanguard
Expert Agribusiness Review & Stakeholder Insight
As agri-food stakeholders, this development underscores the critical link between regulatory compliance, food safety, and agribusiness profitability. The warning from NAFDAC is a clarion call to agri-entrepreneurs, agro-input suppliers, and farmer cooperatives to elevate quality control standards and prioritize Good Agricultural Practices (GAP).
Key Takeaways for Stakeholders:
- Input Verification Is Non-Negotiable:
Agro-input dealers and farmers must ensure that all pesticides, veterinary drugs, and feeds are sourced from NAFDAC-certified suppliers. This builds consumer trust and reduces liability risks. - Health and Trade Implications:
Residues from fake or misused agrochemicals can lead to product rejections in formal markets (especially export) and pose long-term public health challenges, damaging the reputation of Nigeria’s agri-food sector. - Capacity Building Pays Off:
Trainings like the one organized by Karma Agric and PAN are essential. Stakeholders, especially in rural and peri-urban areas, must be regularly educated to prevent unintentional malpractice. - Strengthen Monitoring and Extension Systems:
Extension agents and local regulators should collaborate to monitor agrochemical usage patterns, support informed decision-making, and encourage adoption of safer alternatives like integrated pest management (IPM). - Value Chain Sustainability:
Responsible chemical usage enhances product quality, reduces mortality and spoilage rates, and fosters long-term viability in both crop and livestock systems.
