The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised alarms over the health risks posed by the continued circulation of banned pesticides in Nigeria. The agency has revealed that it seized agrochemicals valued at over ₦800 million across several states, highlighting a significant public health concern linked to pesticide residues found in food products, particularly beans.

During a recent media briefing in Lagos, NAFDAC's Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, disclosed that the agency intercepted 67,428 litres of paraquat, a prohibited pesticide, in Kebbi State, alongside other banned products. This operation is part of a broader initiative to combat the illegal importation and misuse of harmful chemicals in agriculture.

A recent market study conducted by NAFDAC uncovered alarming levels of pesticide residues, specifically pyrethroids and dimethoate, in some bean samples, exceeding the safety limits set for consumption. Adeyeye emphasized that while pesticides are essential for crop protection, their improper use can lead to severe health risks, including chronic illnesses and even death.

"NAFDAC is not against the responsible use of pesticides. Our goal is to ensure that the products available in Nigeria are safe and comply with regulatory standards," Adeyeye stated. She warned that misuse practices, such as applying excessive quantities, using unapproved chemicals, and failing to observe waiting periods before harvesting, can leave dangerous residues on food.

The agency's enforcement efforts have led to the seizure of thousands of cartons of illegal pesticides, with operations in Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Oyo states yielding significant results. Between September 2024 and July 2026, NAFDAC recovered 2,974 cartons of paraquat and 120 cartons of chlorpyrifos, valued at ₦148.7 million and ₦17 million, respectively.

In July 2026, NAFDAC also sealed four unauthorized pesticide manufacturing facilities in Kano State, where unlabelled products and bulk chemicals were discovered, indicating illicit production activities. Adeyeye noted that the ongoing challenge of banned pesticides is exacerbated by illegal importation and distribution across Nigeria’s borders.

The phase-out periods for several harmful pesticides, including paraquat, chlorpyrifos, and atrazine, ended on January 1, 2026, which means these chemicals can no longer be legally manufactured or sold in Nigeria. NAFDAC has taken steps to strengthen its regulatory framework, including restricting the sale of certain pesticide pack sizes to mitigate misuse.

To further combat the issue, NAFDAC has trained over 2,000 agro-input dealers on the responsible handling of agricultural chemicals and is expanding its enforcement operations across the country. The agency is also collaborating with industry stakeholders to enhance public awareness about safe pesticide practices.

Adeyeye urged farmers to purchase pesticides from recognized dealers, adhere to product labels, and apply recommended quantities to ensure food safety. She reiterated that protecting consumers from harmful pesticide residues requires a collective effort across the agricultural value chain.

As NAFDAC continues its vigilance against illegal pesticides, it remains committed to ensuring that food products reaching Nigerian households meet safety standards, thereby safeguarding public health and the environment.