NAFDAC Raises Alarm as Banned Pesticides Enter Nigerian Markets
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised concerns over the illegal circulation of banned and unregistered pesticides in Nigeria, warning that the chemicals pose serious risks to public health, food safety and the environment.
The agency said prohibited agricultural chemicals were entering the country through neighbouring borders and unauthorised distribution channels, raising concerns about their availability in local markets..
Millions of Naira Worth of Chemicals Seized
NAFDAC disclosed that it seized banned agrochemicals valued at more than ₦800 million across Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo states in 2025.
The agency also reported that enforcement operations conducted in the North-West between September 2024 and July 2026 led to the seizure of 2,974 cartons of paraquat-based pesticides valued at approximately ₦148.7 million.
Additional seizures included chlorpyrifos-based pesticides and other prohibited agricultural chemicals.
The agency said it had also sealed unauthorised pesticide and agrochemical manufacturing facilities as part of efforts to curb illegal production and distribution.
Chemicals Raise Food Safety Concerns
The circulation of unapproved pesticides presents potential dangers when chemicals are improperly handled or applied to crops.
NAFDAC warned that even approved agricultural chemicals can pose serious health risks when used incorrectly, applied to unauthorised crops or sprayed too close to harvest.
The agency said its restrictions on selected pesticide ingredients followed scientific reviews and consultations with stakeholders.
Among the substances affected are paraquat, chlorpyrifos and atrazine, with their respective bans taking effect between January 2024 and January 2025.
NAFDAC has also restricted the importation, manufacture and open-market or supermarket sale of 100ml packs of dichlorvos, commonly known as DDVP, because of concerns about its misuse on food produce.
NAFDAC Advises Farmers and Consumers
The agency urged farmers and agricultural input users to purchase pesticides only from licensed dealers and ensure that products meet regulatory requirements.
It also advised users to follow label instructions, apply recommended quantities, observe pre-harvest intervals and dispose of empty chemical containers safely.
NAFDAC called on manufacturers, importers, distributors and members of the public to support enforcement efforts and report suspected illegal products through its official channels.
The agency said its ongoing operations are aimed at protecting consumers, improving food safety and preventing prohibited chemicals from entering the Nigerian market.
Vibnexa Media will continue to follow developments concerning public health, food safety and regulatory enforcement across Nigeria.
