By Ebere Agozie
Organic and Agroecology experts say upscaling the practices in Nigeria is key to healthy living for the nation’s populace and environment.
The experts asserted the Zoom seminar organised by the Organic and Agroecology Initiative (ORAIN) in conjunction with the Organic and Agroecology Innovation Platform (OAIP) and the Journalists Go Organic Initiative.
The Symposium was on `Demand for Organic and Agroecological Produce and Products in Nigeria: Calling for Supply’.
Mrs Ebere Agozie, the Convener of the Journalists Go Organic Initiative, who was one of the discussants, called for caution when purchasing consumables, noting that people are unwittingly serving deadly meals.
“It’s unfortunate that some of us, especially women, poison the families with every meal served, as most of the farm produce purchased is laced with toxins.
“Most chemicals used by farmers are killing Nigerians daily. Even when people try to use herbs to cure sicknesses, they still run into trouble because those herbs are also contaminated.
“Recalling how she was hospitalised for three days after consuming vegetables suspected to have been cultivated with chemical fertilisers, Mrs Agozie called for stringent punishment for importers and sellers of these poisonous chemicals.
“Many studies have shown that exposure to various environmental pollutants, such as pesticides, is associated with increasing prevalence of cases of cancer and solid tumours, particularly among individuals with occupational exposure, such as agricultural workers.
“A study by the Heinrich Böll Foundation had revealed that some hazardous pesticides banned in Europe are being used in Nigeria, thereby leaving their toxic residues on our farm produce.
“Nigeria, along with other low- and middle-income countries, has become a dumping ground for big Europe-based agrochemical companies exporting banned toxic pesticides for profit at the risk of lives and the environment.
“Then, you should ask yourself, why don’t they consume what they produce?”
Agozie urged Nigerians to be wise when purchasing for the health of their families and averred that the practice of Organic and agroecological farming is a win-win situation.
“The good thing is that Nigerians are beginning to take care of their health by the increase in the demand for organic produce in the country.
“At our Abuja Organic Market, our vendors cannot even produce enough for our customers; this is part of the reason we want more farmers to come on board.
“We should all help in our own little ways. If we all farmed organically, even in our backyards, those who sell those deadly chemicals would lose our patronage.
“Same goes for those who farm with synthetic fertilisers. But as long as we continue to patronise them, they will continue to thrive.
She reiterated that Organic and agroecological practices ensure that one eats healthy and stays healthy and can never go wrong with them.
“They put healthy food on our table and as well put plenty of money in our bank accounts.
“They do not only ensure food sufficiency but are also effective in the restoration of our health and that of the environment.
“Something can be sufficient and not efficient, but organic and agroecological practices are all-encompassing, so let us go back to what our forefathers used to do, and they lived longer and healthier.
“Consumer perceptions of quality and safety, as well as the the environmental impact of organic agricultural practices, are factors driving the demand for organic products in Nigeria.
“There’s a growing awareness of the benefits of organic and sustainable products, particularly in the natural cosmetics market.”
Another discussant, Dr Aderonke Ajav, Director, University Health Services, University of Ibadan, noted that consumers are now increasingly prioritising food safety, environmental concern, and health consciousness when making purchasing decisions.
She called for produce promotion and collaborations between farmers, academia, media, and government policies to help enhance the benefits of organic produce.
Prof. Olugbenga AdeOluwa, Professor of Soil Fertility, University of Ibadan,, who moderated the symposium,, added that farmers need to be trained and certified in organic farming practices to meet the growing demand.
“Nigerian producers are seeking ways to expand the export as consumers pay more attention to health.
“Nigeria has been making money producing organically grown crops for European markets, where demand for healthier food has been rapidly growing.
