The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has detected pesticide residues above permitted safety limits in some bean samples, raising concerns about potential health risks. A recent market study found residues of pyrethroids and dimethoate above applicable safety limits in some bean samples. Dimethoate is not approved for preserving harvested beans against pests like weevils. NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye warned that improper use of agricultural chemicals could expose consumers, farmers, and the environment to harmful substances.
NAFDAC seized banned agrochemicals worth more than N800 million in Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo states in 2025 as part of efforts to curb the circulation of prohibited pesticides. The agency also intercepted 2,974 cartons of pesticides containing paraquat, valued at about N148.7 million, and 120 cartons of chlorpyrifos-containing pesticides worth more than N17 million, between September 2024 and July 2026. These seizures were part of NAFDAC's enforcement activities to ensure compliance with pesticide regulations.
Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye emphasized that food safety begins on the farm and urged farmers to use only approved pesticides, apply recommended quantities, and follow instructions on product labels. She warned that excessive application, inappropriate mixing of chemicals, and harvesting crops before the prescribed pre-harvest interval could leave harmful residues on food. Adeyeye stressed that NAFDAC does not oppose the responsible use of pesticides but is committed to ensuring only approved, compliant products are available in the Nigerian market.
The continued circulation of prohibited pesticides is partly linked to illegal importation through neighboring countries, unauthorized local production, and distribution networks. NAFDAC sealed four unauthorized pesticide and agrochemical manufacturing facilities in Bichi, Kano State, in July 2026, discovering unlabelled products, bulk chemicals, and packaging materials linked to illicit production. Officers arrested suspects during enforcement operations, and one case is currently undergoing prosecution.
NAFDAC has restricted the 100-millilitre pack size of dichlorvos, prohibiting its importation, manufacture, and open-market or supermarket sale due to concerns about misuse. The agency is strengthening collaboration with government institutions and law enforcement authorities to identify and remove illegal pesticides from circulation and prosecute offenders. To improve compliance, NAFDAC has trained more than 2,000 agro-input dealers on the responsible handling and application of agricultural chemicals.
The agency is expanding its investigation and enforcement zonal offices from three to six to enhance its regulatory activities. Other measures include pesticide registration and scientific assessment, inspection of manufacturing and storage facilities, border checks, market surveillance, and laboratory testing. NAFDAC is also providing free interim testing of export products to encourage compliance with safety standards and reduce the risk of agricultural consignments being rejected in destination countries.
Dr. Idayat Mudshiru, Deputy Director of Veterinary Medicine and Allied Products at NAFDAC, emphasized the importance of sustained engagement with farmers and other stakeholders to prevent pesticide misuse. The agency is working with industry stakeholders, including CropLife, to promote public awareness and safe pesticide handling. Mudshiru urged farmers and agro-input dealers to comply with approved safety requirements, adding that NAFDAC will continue enforcement and public education to protect consumers and the environment.
Key points
- NAFDAC detected high pesticide residues in beans and seized N800m banned chemicals in 2025.
- The agency is strengthening collaboration with government institutions to identify and remove illegal pesticides from circulation.
- NAFDAC has trained over 2,000 agro-input dealers on responsible handling and application of agricultural chemicals.
