The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has conducted training for 50 small-scale farmers in Adamawa State focused on pesticide management to help reduce risks linked to pesticide usage.
The training was intended to stop additional bans and refusals of Nigerian agricultural products by the EU.
At the training session, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, who serves as the Executive Director and CEO of NEPC, highlighted that the persistent prohibition and refusal to accept Nigerian agricultural products by the EU and other international markets are causing significant worry for the Nigerian Export Promotion Council.
She highlighted that the existence of pollutants like pesticide remnants and additional impurities surpassing the set maximum allowable levels poses a significant obstacle for Nigerian agricultural products being exported.
As she points out, recent research indicates that more than 70% of both small-scale farmers and commercial farms in Nigeria employ pesticides as a method to protect their crops from insect and pest infestations.
Nevertheless, many farmers and processors do not receive proper instruction or support regarding the secure usage and administration of pesticides, which often results in insufficient application methods that may cause significant consequences in the marketplace.
She mentioned that the thorough pest control program suggests multiple crucial elements.
This encompasses setting up a stringent registration procedure for pesticides to guarantee that solely authorized and registered products are marketed and utilized. It also involves making certain that only certified spray technicians equipped with full personal protection gear conduct spraying activities at agricultural sites and storage facilities. Additionally, it entails designing educational programs aimed at farmers, sprayers, and relevant parties. Furthermore, implementing a surveillance mechanism to monitor pesticide consumption, distribution, and regulatory checks can help tackle violations. Lastly, backing investigations focused on devising secure and eco-friendly methods of managing pests through an integrated approach is essential.
Additionally, the state Commissioner for Commerce, Trade, and Industry, Dr. Ishaya John Dabari, encouraged those who benefited from the program to make full use of their newly acquired knowledge and skills by imparting this wisdom to others within their community.
Dr. Dabari emphasized theexport potential of Adamawa State, pointing out cowpea, beans, peanuts, and livestock as major goods.
By utilizing the training, recipients can play a role in boosting the state’s economy and improve its standing as a trustworthy source of premium agricultural goods.
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