It’s unfortunate that many, especially women, inadvertently poison their families with every meal, as most farm produce available in the market is laced with harmful toxins,
— Agozie
Organic and agroecology experts have emphasized the need to upscale sustainable farming practices in Nigeria, stating that it is crucial for both public health and environmental sustainability.
This was the consensus during a Zoom seminar organized by the Organic and Agroecology Initiative (ORAIN) in collaboration with the Organic and Agroecology Innovation Platform (OAIP) and the Journalists Go Organic Initiative. The symposium, titled “Demand for Organic and Agroecological Produce and Products in Nigeria: Calling for Supply,” explored ways to enhance the availability and accessibility of organic products in Nigeria.
Mrs. Ebere Agozie, Convener of the Journalists Go Organic Initiative, warned that many Nigerians unknowingly expose their families to toxic substances through chemically grown food.
“It’s unfortunate that many, especially women, inadvertently poison their families with every meal, as most farm produce available in the market is laced with harmful toxins,” she said.
Agozie recounted how she was hospitalized for three days after consuming vegetables suspected to have been cultivated with chemical fertilizers. She called for strict penalties against importers and distributors of hazardous pesticides, citing studies that link chemical exposure to rising cases of cancer and other health complications.
“A study by the Heinrich Böll Foundation revealed that hazardous pesticides banned in Europe are still being used in Nigeria. These chemicals leave toxic residues on farm produce, making Nigeria and other low-income countries a dumping ground for harmful agrochemicals,” she added.
Despite these challenges, Agozie highlighted a positive shift in consumer preferences toward organic foods.
“The increasing demand for organic produce in Nigeria is a sign that people are becoming more conscious of their health. At our Abuja Organic Market, vendors struggle to meet demand because more consumers now prefer chemical-free food. This is why we encourage more farmers to transition to organic practices,” she said.
She urged Nigerians to support organic farming by growing food in their backyards and avoiding synthetic fertilizers, thereby reducing demand for harmful chemicals.
“Organic and agroecology practices not only provide healthier food but also offer financial benefits. They ensure food sufficiency, promote environmental restoration, and contribute to longevity, just as our forefathers enjoyed,” she stated.
Dr. Aderonke Ajav, Director, University Health Services, University of Ibadan, stressed that Nigerian consumers are now prioritizing food safety, environmental sustainability, and health benefits when making purchasing decisions. She called for increased collaboration among farmers, academia, media, and policymakers to promote organic farming.
Prof. Olugbenga AdeOluwa, Professor of Soil Fertility at the University of Ibadan, who moderated the symposium, emphasized the need for farmer training and certification in organic practices to meet growing demand.
“Nigerian producers are exploring ways to expand organic food exports as health-conscious consumers worldwide are willing to pay a premium for organic products,” he said.
Experts agreed that policy interventions, awareness campaigns, and investment in organic farming training would be key to ensuring a healthier food system in Nigeria.
