By Judith Jonathan, Albarka Radio Intern
The Bauchi State Agricultural Development Programme (BASADP) has warned farmers against the indiscriminate use of agro-chemicals, stressing that misuse of herbicides, insecticides, and other farm chemicals poses serious risks to human health, the environment, and agricultural productivity.
Speaking as a guest on Albarka Radio’s live program “Fam Beta Radio”, the Director of Technical Services at BASADP, Mr. Rafilawus Yohannah Iliya, said that while agro-chemicals are useful in tackling pests and weeds, improper handling and overdependence on them can have long-term negative consequences.
He explained that most farmers neglect the safety instructions provided on chemical labels, often applying overdoses or spraying wrongly in their rush to control farm challenges. This, he said, not only damages crops but also affects non-target organisms and beneficial insects in the environment.
“Sometimes farmers mix chemicals correctly, but because of spray drift, nearby crops that are not the target are harmed. In the case of insecticides, they may end up killing useful organisms like bees and butterflies, which play a vital role in pollination,” Iliya noted.
On the impact of herbicides, the BASADP technical director warned that excessive use strips the soil of biodiversity, weakens its structure, and reduces its long-term fertility. He emphasized the need for farmers to adopt soil conservation measures, such as adding organic matter, to maintain soil health.
While acknowledging the benefits of agro-chemicals, Iliya cautioned farmers against total reliance, saying the way forward is a balanced approach.
“We are not saying farmers should abandon chemicals completely or go 100 percent organic. For large-scale and commercial farming, chemicals remain necessary. However, for health, safety, and environmental sustainability, organic methods are also important. What we want is for farmers to follow safety protocols carefully and combine chemical use with sustainable practices,” he advised.
The BASADP director stressed that the program’s sensitization efforts are aimed at helping farmers make informed choices that protect their health, the environment, and ensure long-term productivity.