Some farmers in Bauchi (Photo: Google)
‘Gital also said that adulterated seeds and seedlings were not genetically pure, urging farmers to always consult before buying inputs’
By Ahmed Ahmed
Agricultural experts in Bauchi State have cautioned farmers against use of adulterated agro-chemicals, fertilizer, and substandards seeds in their farms.
The experts gave the warning in an interactive Agricultural Extension Service (AES) Radio Programme for Smallholder farmers (SHFS) at Globe FM Bauchi in Bauchi.
The programme titled, “Together Against Poverty (TAP) project,” was sponsored by Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, with support from OXFAM.
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Dr Iliyasu Gital, agronomist and former general manager, Bauchi Agricultural Development Project (BSADP), said that adulterated agro-chemicals, fertilizer, seeds, seedlings and other substandard inputs contribute to low yield in farms.
“Therefore, farmers should be wary of what types of farm inputs and seeds they buy and apply in their farms.
“Substandard agro-chemicals, including fertilizer, herbicides and insecticides have damaging effects on the quality, quantity and profitability of farm products.
“Adulterated inputs affect plant size and root formation by causing poor quality outputs,” he said.
Gital also said that adulterated seeds and seedlings were not genetically pure, urging farmers to always consult before buying inputs.
The state Chairman, Agro Chemical Dealers, Alhaji Mohammed Sani, lamented over the said the sales and use of substandard goods lead to waste of resources and valuable time and failure.
He advised farmers to have access to certified seeds and chemical inputs, rather than using what is available in the open market.
