BSADP raises alarm over fake agrochemicals, warns farmers of rising losses
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Bauchi State Agricultural Development Programme (BSADP) has raised serious concern over the growing circulation of counterfeit agrochemicals, seeds, and fertilisers in the state, warning that the menace poses a major threat to agricultural productivity and farmers’ livelihoods.
The Programme Manager of BSADP, Alhaji Ya’u Muhammad, gave the warning in an interview with journalists in Bauchi, noting that fake farm inputs are increasingly being sold with forged labels placed on inferior products to deceive unsuspecting farmers.
Alhaji Ya’u explained that BSADP adopts strict screening and verification processes before approving any agrochemical or seed for farmers’ use, stressing that seeds and agrochemicals remain the two most critical inputs in crop production.
According to him, any compromise in the quality of these inputs could result in total crop failure.
He cited recent experiences of onion farmers in parts of the state who suffered significant losses after unknowingly using substandard and fake agrochemicals, describing the situation as avoidable if farmers remain vigilant and rely on approved products.
The BSADP boss described a recent farmers’ workshop as timely, saying it was aimed at addressing recurring pest infestations and crop diseases affecting farms across Bauchi State.
He expressed hope that the knowledge shared during the engagement would help farmers overcome these challenges and guarantee safer and more profitable harvests.
Alhaji Ya’u emphasised that modern agriculture has evolved beyond subsistence farming into a business-driven venture that requires innovation, quality inputs, and proper application techniques to achieve optimal yields.
He urged farmers to embrace modern practices and strictly adhere to manufacturers’ instructions when applying agrochemicals to avoid health hazards and poor farm outcomes.
He also cautioned against unsafe practices such as mixing chemicals with bare hands, using improper measurements, and neglecting protective gear.
Farmers, he advised, should always wear boots, caps, gloves, and protective clothing, while ensuring that agrochemicals are stored safely and kept out of children’s reach.
On efforts to combat counterfeit products, Alhaji Ya’u disclosed that BSADP is collaborating with regulatory agencies and legal experts to curb the spread of fake agrochemicals.
He added that Hangzhou Agrochemicals Nigeria Limited is duly registered with NAFDAC and currently has about 26 approved products available for farmers’ use.
