At a recently concluded Annual General Meeting of Croplife Nigeria, an association of crop protectors and agro allied industrialists, former Vice-President of the association, Prince Martins Awofisayo was unanimously elected President.
In his acceptance speech on behalf of the newly elected executives, he demanded increased recognition and respect for Croplife Nigeria; more cooperation from regulatory bodies viz. NAFDAC, SON, NESREA; abolishment of multiple regulation of the industry; improved support for the Pesticides’ Bill; and the dire need for government to create enabling environment for agribusinesses to thrive.
He said, “The goal is to have an all-encompassing law to govern the pesticide industry in Nigeria that will address all issues and challenges of the industry from product registration to Good Agricultural Practices involving mandatory training and certification of agro-dealers, agricultural extension workers, and other relevant stakeholders.
“The bill, when established, will also provide a veritable platform for advocacy backed by law, which is especially important in our engagement with the international community and policy formulators.”
Achimugu added that rising cases of food contamination and rejection of agricultural exports due to high pesticide residues underscored the urgency of stronger regulation and training.
