By Salifu Faridat
National consultative stakeholders of the 2024 Agriculture budget have sounded an alarm regarding the widespread and improper application of hazardous chemicals on food crops by Nigerian farmers.
The stakeholders believe that farmers are resorting to this practice in an attempt to address Nigeria’s food export vulnerability in global markets.
During a forum organized by ActionAid Nigeria, Oxfam Nigeria, ONE, Ministry of Budget and National Planning, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and the Department of Agriculture & Rural Development, in collaboration with the ECOWAS COMMISSION, stakeholders declared a state of emergency concerning the misuse of pesticides on food crops.
They pointed out that Nigeria has been losing approximately $362.5 million annually due to the ban on the exportation of beans over the past eight years. This ban has significantly impacted the country’s export revenue and economy.
The improper use of chemicals on food crops has resulted in Nigeria facing food rejection in the global market, leading to a decline in export revenue, increased unemployment, and limited funding for
essential agricultural projects. The situation also hampers farmers’ access to micro-credit facilities in the country.
Okoso Oyere, the Budget Officer at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasized the urgent need for federal and state governments to implement budgetary allocations that will boost public investment in agriculture.
Oyere highlighted the potential of the agricultural sector to lift the country out of subnational poverty levels.
One of the challenges faced in implementing the budget is the delayed
release of allocated funds into the agricultural sector. This delay has hindered the capacity of governments to drive socio-economic development in the country.
Despite this obstacle, stakeholders are
optimistic that the budget will eventually be implemented and run concurrently with the 2023 budget appropriation.
Mary Afam, the National President of the Small Scale Holders Farmers Association of Nigeria, highlighted the importance of consultancy services to guide cooperatives in accessing credit facilities, extension services, insurance, and existing CBN Agricultural credit facilities.
By preparing business proposals and providing support, these consultancy services can empower farmers and foster their growth in the agricultural sector.
As concerns over hazardous chemical use in food crops persist, the collaborative efforts of stakeholders and the commitment of the government will be crucial in addressing these challenges and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices in Nigeria.