By Abdulmalik Mohammed
Acknowledging the challenges farmers face due to the ban on various chemicals, she emphasized the importance of transitioning to safer alternatives.On misconceptions about banned chemicals being dumped in Nigeria, she explained that comprehensive lists have been provided to the media to dispel such notions.NAFDAC had earlier reported that a Consultant Public Health Physician at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Kwara State, Professor Tanimola Akande, warned that people who consume food items contaminated with harmful chemicals may experience symptoms ranging from respiratory distress to neurological disorders.The don, while stressing the importance of identifying trusted sources for food products to minimise exposure to contaminated items, called for stricter enforcement measures and increased public awareness campaigns to educate consumers and discourage the use of pesticides in food preservation.Tanimola noted that there is a need for enhanced surveillance and monitoring by government agencies, including the Inspectorate Unit of Veterinary Services and Environmental Health Officials.Similarly, a Senior Registrar in the Department of Community Medicine and Primary Care at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Dr Solomon Olorunfemi emphasised the urgent need for measures to curb the indiscriminate use of pesticides.He pointed out the negative health impacts associated with the use of snipers, ranging from common symptoms like nausea and vomiting to more severe long-term effects like organ damage and the development of cancer.