The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Bauchi State has announced the launch of an intensive media campaign to promote the safe use of agricultural chemicals among farmers, sellers, and consumers.
NAFDAC’s State Coordinator in Bauchi, Hamis Yahaya revealed the initiative during an interview on Tuesday. He said the campaign is particularly timely with the arrival of the rainy season, when the use of agrochemicals typically increases.
The campaign aims to educate agrochemical marketers on the importance of purchasing and selling only genuine and high-quality products.
“Part of the programme will also focus on critical issues such as the proper storage and display of agricultural chemicals in markets,” Yahaya explained. “Exposing these chemicals to direct sunlight can degrade their effectiveness and trigger harmful reactions. Heat exposure not only reduces efficacy but can also create serious health hazards.”
He stressed the need for widespread education on best practices for handling agrochemicals, including safe disposal of empty containers and the importance of following label instructions.
“Our goal is to educate sellers so they, in turn, can educate buyers—especially farmers—on proper chemical usage,” Yahaya said.
To achieve wider reach, NAFDAC plans to partner with the Bauchi State Ministry of Information and utilize multiple communication channels, including radio stations, to disseminate information, particularly in rural areas.
Yahaya also noted that a sensitisation exercise had already taken place in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) at the Soro Weekly Market in Ganjuwa Local Government Area. The outreach targeted major sellers and buyers and provided valuable feedback on chemical use practices among local farmers.
In addition, NAFDAC recently held a meeting with the Forum of Agrochemical and Pesticide Dealers in the state to discuss regulatory requirements, especially product registration.
“We are encouraging Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to register their products with NAFDAC so they can operate legally and safely,” Yahaya added.
