Plateau dealers warn of fake fertilizers, rising losses for farmers

Dealers in Plateau State, Nigeria, are sounding the alarm over a surge in fake and adulterated fertilizers entering the market. The Fertilizer and Agro-Allied Dealers Association (FADA) warned that this trend poses a severe threat to the region's food production and the financial stability of its farmers.

This warning comes at a critical juncture for farmers already grappling with a difficult season. They are contending with significant post-harvest losses, a sharp decline in the prices of their produce, and escalating costs for essential agricultural inputs. Geoffrey Monday Bisat, Chairman of FADA in Plateau State, expressed sympathy for the farmers' plight, describing the situation as one of the most challenging in recent years.

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While sharing in the pains of our farmers, we wish to strongly caution against the increasing circulation of fake and adulterated fertilizers and other farm inputs in various markets.

Bisat emphasized that the proliferation of substandard farm inputs is unacceptable, especially when farmers are already facing economic hardship. He stated that fake fertilizers not only reduce crop yields but also endanger food security and the livelihoods of thousands of farming households. The association vowed to combat unscrupulous dealers who exploit farmers with counterfeit products.

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At a time when farmers are already grappling with economic hardship and losses, it would be unacceptable for desperate individuals to further exploit them through the sale of substandard agricultural products.

To mitigate these risks, FADA is urging farmers to purchase fertilizers and other agro-allied products exclusively from approved and reputable dealers. They also encourage the public and farmers to report any instances of fake fertilizer distribution to relevant security and regulatory agencies, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Ministry of Agriculture.

Adding to the farmers' burden is the continued rise in the prices of fertilizers and other inputs. Bisat clarified that this increase is not due to actions by local dealers but is largely driven by global market disruptions and geopolitical tensions affecting petrochemicals, the key components in fertilizer production. He expressed hope for price stabilization as global market conditions improve.

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The association would not remain silent while unscrupulous dealers undermine genuine farmers through the distribution of adulterated farm inputs.