Nigeria’s sesame exports are on the brink of a crisis, and it’s all because of a silent killer lurking in the fields: paraquat. But here’s where it gets controversial—while this highly toxic herbicide is banned in several countries, its use persists in Nigerian agriculture, threatening not just public health but the nation’s entire export reputation. The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has launched an intensified crackdown, but will it be enough to save the industry? Let’s dive in.
The NEPC’s recent move comes on the heels of alarming warnings from international buyers, who have flagged chemical contamination in Nigerian exports. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about paraquat. Reports from the Japan Oil & Fat Importers & Exporters Association (JOFIEA) and Japanese authorities revealed excessive paraquat residues in sesame shipments, prompting threats from foreign importers to halt purchases altogether. Meanwhile, the European Union’s Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) has repeatedly flagged Salmonella and chemical contamination in consignments bound for Greece, Germany, Poland, Latvia, Spain, and Belgium.
To tackle this growing crisis, the NEPC’s Product Development Department organized a Sensitization and Awareness Programme in Jalingo, Taraba State, focusing on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), Good Handling Practices (GHP), Good Storage Practices (GSP), and Sanitary and Phytosanitary Standards (SPS). The event, held at the NULGE House Conference Hall, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from NAFDAC, SON, RMRDC, NSSAN, state ministries, traditional rulers, farmers’ groups, and the media. Here’s the bold truth—if Nigeria doesn’t clean up its act, its sesame exports could face a global ban.
Speaking at the forum, NEPC Director of Product Development Macphetson Fred-Ileogben, represented by the council’s CEO, emphasized the urgent need to eliminate paraquat from the sesame value chain. “The future of our sesame export market hinges on strict adherence to international standards,” he stated. “We must ensure Nigerian sesame remains competitive and safe for global consumers.”
But here’s the counterpoint—while the NEPC’s efforts are commendable, enforcing a ban on paraquat, locally known as ‘Sharp Sharp,’ won’t be easy. The council took a proactive step by visiting the Galadima of Muri and the village head of Sunkani in Ardo Kola Local Government Area, two major sesame-producing communities notorious for paraquat use. Both traditional leaders pledged support, but the real challenge lies in changing deeply ingrained farming practices.
The NEPC’s commitment to protecting export markets and promoting sustainable agriculture is clear. However, here’s the thought-provoking question—is Nigeria doing enough to balance economic growth with environmental and public health concerns? As the debate heats up, one thing is certain: the world is watching. What’s your take? Do you think Nigeria can overcome this crisis, or is the damage already done? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
