Organic and agroecology experts say upscaling the practice in Nigeria is key to healthy living for the nation’s populace and environment.

The experts stated this at a Zoom seminar organised by the Organic and Agroecology Initiative (ORAIN) in conjunction with Organic and Agroecology Innovation Platform (OAIP) and Journalists Go Organic Initiative.

The theme of the symposium was “Demand for Organic and Agroecological Produce and Products in Nigeria: Calling for Supply”.

Mrs. Ebere Agozie, the Convener, Journalists Go Organic Initiative, one of the discussants, called for caution when purchasing consumables, noting that people are unwittingly serving deadly meals to their families.

“It’s unfortunate that some of us, especially women, poison our families with every meal served as most of the farm produce purchased are 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,’’ she said.

Agozie, who narrated how she was hospitalised for three days after consuming vegetables suspected to have been cultivated with chemical fertilisers, called for stringent punishment for importers and sellers of these poisonous chemicals.

“Studies have shown that exposure to various environmental pollutants, such as pesticides, is associated with increasing prevalence of cases of cancer and solid tumors.

“This is particularly among individuals with occupational exposure, such as agricultural workers.

“A study by Heinrich Boll Foundation had revealed that some hazardous pesticides banned in Europe are being used in Nigeria, thereby leaving their toxic residues on our farm produce,’’ she said.

Agozie said that Nigeria, along with other low and middle income countries, has become a dumping ground for big Europe-based agrochemical companies.

She said those companies export 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?” she said.

Agozie urged Nigerians to consider the health of their family members when purchasing and  said that the practice of organic and agroecology was 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 why we want more farmers to come on board.

“We should all help in our own little ways. If we all farm organic, even in our backyards, those who sell those deadly chemicals will have lost 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 said.

She reiterated that Organic and Agroecology practices ensure that one eats healthy and stays healthy.

“Organic and Agroecology practices put healthy food on our table and as well put plenty of money in our bank accounts.

“Organic and Agroecology practices not only ensure food sufficiency but also ensure effective restoration of our health, and that of the environment.

“Something can be sufficient and not efficient, but organic and agroecology practices are all encompassing, so let us go back to what our forefathers use to do, and they lived longer and healthier,’’ she said.

Agozie said that consumer perceptions of quality and safety, as well as 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,’’ she said.

Another discussant, Dr Aderonke Ajav, Director, University Health Services, University of Ibadan, said that consumers are now increasingly prioritising food safety, environmental concern, and health consciousness when making purchasing decisions.

She called for product 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, added that farmers needed 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.”

By Anita Uzoagba