NAFDAC noted that the banned substances are not only highly toxic but also pose serious health risks including carcinogenic effects, respiratory failure, and damage to the liver and kidneys.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), said it seized banned pesticides worth over N800million in major raids its officers carried out across several states in the South-West region  of Nigeria.

NAFDAC said that it conducted a series of coordinated raids across Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Oyo States, targeting shops involved in the illegal distribution of banned agrochemical products.

According to a statement issued on Friday by the agency, the operation, which spanned several days, resulted in the inspection of over 16 outlets and the seizure of 551 cartons of pesticides containing hazardous substances such as Chlorpyrifos (banned effective November 1, 2024), Paraquat (banned since January 1, 2024), and Atrazine (to be banned by January 1, 2025).

“Over 16 outlets were inspected, resulting in the seizure of 551 cartons of banned pesticides, estimated at over N800 million. These hazardous chemicals are known to be carcinogenic and can cause respiratory failure, liver and kidney damage, among other severe health issues,” the statement read.

NAFDAC noted that the banned substances are not only highly toxic but also pose serious health risks including carcinogenic effects, respiratory failure, and damage to the liver and kidneys.

Their continued use in agriculture also threatens Nigeria’s international trade standing, as traces of these chemicals in exports have led to the rejection of Nigerian agricultural products abroad.

The agency said, “In addition to posing serious public health risks, the presence of these substances in agricultural exports contributes to the rejection of Nigerian products in international markets. Safer alternatives such as Flushout, Sharpshooter, and Best are available and recommended.”

NAFDAC therefore urged the public to remain vigilant, verify the sources of agrochemical products, and report any suspicious or unauthorised sales to the nearest NAFDAC office.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to upholding regulatory standards and ensuring the health and safety of Nigerians through continuous monitoring and enforcement actions.

“NAFDAC urges the public to remain vigilant by verifying product sources and reporting suspicious activities to the nearest NAFDAC office.

“The agency remains committed to regulatory standards and protecting the health of Nigerians through continued monitoring and enforcement,” the statement stressed.

As part of its activities for this year’s World Malaria Day, the Women and Development Movement (WADEM), has expressed its unwavering commitment to eradicating malaria from every environment.

The group reiterated its commitment on Friday in Osogbo the Osun State capital in commemoration of this year’s World Malaria Day, observed globally every April 25.

WADEM organises a symposium which witnesses health talks, free medical tests, and the distribution of antimalarial drugs to the attendees to support efforts by both government and non-governmental organizations aimed at combating the high malaria burden in sub-Saharan Africa.

While speaking, a health practitioner from WADEM, Mrs Owadara noted that this year’s World Malaria Day theme, “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,” closely aligns with the group’s vision of making a tangible impact in the global fight against the disease.

She advised the general public against assumptions of any health symptoms and self meditation, noting that examination of individuals’ health at the hospital is the best way.

Owadara made it clear that, there is no one without malaria, the important thing is to take care of ourselves by visiting the hospital, imploring residents to visit the hospital for accurate diagnosis of treatment rather than relying on herbal concoction or self medication.

She also encouraged people to maintain a clean environment to prevent mosquito breeding, and eat balanced diets.

“As we all know today is world malaria day, which means, a disease that is caused by the biting of mosques. We shouldn’t allow drainage or storing of water around our vicinity because that is part of what gives us malaria, especially when female mosquitoes lay eggs in it.

“Malaria is widespread globally, the use of mosquito nets is highly advisable which is part of what prevents us from having malaria.

“Whenever we get to the hospital we should cooperate with the nurses to examine us.

“It is advisable to eat fruits, especially at dinner. We shouldn’t eat the same classes for food to complete three square meals. Importantly we should cultivate the habit of eating balanced diets,” Owadara concluded.

In their separate remarks, representatives of the Osun State University medical students, Adegbola Esther Jumoke among other stakeholders from Market women, hairdressers, tricycle and okada riders also acknowledged the efforts of WADEM in sensitising the public about the danger of malaria. They thanked the organisers for the free medical tests and drugs.

A short drama was organised by the media students to enlighten and educate the public about the hazards of self medication.

The Osun State Market Association on Friday declared its support for the incumbent Governor of the state, Senator Ademola Adeleke, to run for a second term in office.

While declaring their support for the governor at a ceremony held at Olonkoro City Hall, Osogbo, the state capital, the association—led by its leaders, Babaloja and Iyaloja from Osogbo and Olorunda Local Government Areas—stated that the governor deserved a second term due to his remarkable achievements in both human and physical development across the state.

Led by the Babaloja General, Chief David Ojo, the association commended the governor for his accomplishments in road construction, which have boosted commercial activities in the state.

According to him, Adeleke’s infrastructural development drive has improved access to markets, thereby enhancing trade and commercial activities in the state capital.

Represented by the Babaloja of Orisunbare Market, Adeoti Qamardeen, Ojo said the association rallied support for the governor to enable him to complete the good work he has started.

He affirmed, “Since assuming office, Governor Adeleke has demonstrated visionary leadership and an unrelenting commitment to the economic development of Osun State, particularly in the area of trade and commerce, which lies at the heart of our association’s interests.
Under his administration, several key road infrastructure projects have been initiated and completed, directly benefiting market accessibility, local transportation, and commercial activities.”

Responding on behalf of the governor, the Special Adviser on Market Affairs, Mrs. Eniola Omotosho, said the endorsement would further motivate the governor to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people.

While acknowledging the gesture from various market leaders and associations, Governor Adeleke reiterated his administration’s commitment to delivering on his five-point agenda with a focus on safeguarding the welfare of the people of Osun State.