The House of Representatives has urged immediate measures to stop the use of harmful pesticides in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, warning that such substances pose serious risks to public health, food safety, and the environment.
The lawmakers also appealed to the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment to create a revival plan—through its Industrial Inspectorate Department—for inactive industries across the six geopolitical zones. Additionally, the House called on the ministry to allocate ₦350 million in the 2026 budget to begin the resuscitation of these industries.
These resolutions came after the House adopted a motion titled “Stoppage and Mitigation of Risks Associated with the Use of Hazardous Pesticides Across Nigeria,” sponsored by Hon. Clement Jimbo, during Wednesday’s plenary session.
While presenting the motion, Jimbo pointed out that although pesticides are essential for crop protection, the widespread availability of Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs) poses serious threats to human life, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability.
He referred to data from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), revealing that more than 50% of registered pesticides in Nigeria fall within the HHP category—many of which have already been banned in several countries due to their dangerous toxicity levels.
Jimbo voiced concern that about 70% of suicide cases in Nigeria are linked to the ingestion of highly toxic pesticides such as Dichlorvos (DDVP), popularly known as Sniper. He added that the uncontrolled importation and use of these chemicals have led to the contamination of water sources and soil, putting farmers, consumers, and the environment at risk.
“Reports indicate a growing number of pesticide poisoning cases and rejection of Nigerian food exports at international ports due to chemical residues,” he said. “Research has shown that seven of the thirteen commonly used pesticide ingredients in Nigeria are carcinogenic.”
He further recalled that in 2020, over 270 people were reported dead in Oyo Obi Community, Benue State, after the local river was polluted by the banned pesticide Endosulfan.
Addressing industrial development, Jimbo lamented the prolonged decline of the nation’s manufacturing industries but expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration would give priority to industrial rejuvenation.
He stressed that restoring key industries such as the Osogbo Steel Rolling Mill, Osogbo Machine Tools, and the Umuahia Ceramic Industry would enhance economic growth, reduce reliance on imports, create employment opportunities, and boost Nigeria’s manufacturing capacity.
The House adopted the motion unanimously and directed its Committees on Industry and Legislative Compliance to ensure proper implementation and report back within four weeks for further legislative consideration.
