NAFDAC Launches Awareness Campaign on Safe Use of Farm Chemicals in Bauchi
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Bauchi State office, has started an important awareness campaign to educate farmers and chemical sellers about the safe use of agricultural chemicals. This campaign is especially important now as the rainy season begins—a time when many farmers use pesticides and fertilizers for their crops.
What You Should Know as a Farmer or Seller
Hamis Yahaya, the NAFDAC State Coordinator, explained that the campaign will focus on ensuring that both sellers and users understand the dangers of using fake or wrongly stored agricultural products. He said, “Exposing chemicals to sunlight can degrade their quality and cause harmful reactions. Direct sunlight can lead to loss of efficacy, and interaction with heat may pose serious health risks.”
To reduce these risks, NAFDAC is teaching sellers the importance of:
Buying only genuine and approved agricultural chemicals
Storing them away from direct sunlight and heat
Disposing of empty chemical containers safely
Educating customers on proper usage based on product instructions
How the Campaign Will Reach You
NAFDAC plans to work closely with the Bauchi State Ministry of Information and local radio stations to pass the message to rural farmers who may not have access to written materials. There will also be sensitization programs in local markets to ensure farmers and dealers get the right information directly.
One such event already held at Soro Weekly Market in Ganjuwa Local Government Area allowed farmers to share their concerns and receive direct education from officials.
Support for Local Businesses
The campaign also supports small-scale business owners. NAFDAC is encouraging agrochemical manufacturers and dealers to register their products so they can sell legally and safely. This registration helps protect both the seller and the user from unsafe and unapproved products.
“We want to educate sellers to the extent that they, in turn, will educate buyers on how to use the chemicals properly, strictly following the instructions on product labels.” – Hamis Yahaya, NAFDAC Bauchi Coordinator.
This initiative is a major step toward protecting farmers, consumers, and the environment. By following NAFDAC’s guidance—buying genuine products, storing them properly, and using them as directed—everyone in the agricultural chain can stay safe and productive.
