The Federal Government has launched a Technical Working Group (TWG) on Agricultural Produce Residue Standards to address repeated rejections of Nigerian agricultural exports over chemical residue violations. The move, announced during an inauguration event in Abuja on Monday, targets compliance with Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) and other sanitary and phytosanitary requirements set by international markets. Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Abdullahi, said the TWG supports President Tinubu's directive for Nigerian farm products to meet global safety and quality benchmarks alongside production goals. He cited past export rejections due to pesticide residues and contaminants, which have led to financial losses, eroded market trust, and hurt farmers and agribusinesses.
Abdullahi described the TWG as a science-based, multi-sectoral response that will unite experts from government, academia, regulatory bodies, commodity associations, and development partners. The group is expected to craft evidence-based, practical solutions that improve pesticide use compliance among farmers and strengthen national food control systems. Its recommendations must align with international standards while reflecting local farming realities. The Minister emphasized that the initiative aims to boost access to premium export markets, increase foreign earnings, reduce post-harvest losses, and protect public health.
Permanent Secretary Marcus Ogunbiyi, represented by Bukar Musa, Director at the Federal Department of Agriculture, stressed agriculture's role in food security, jobs, and foreign exchange. He warned that ongoing export refusals over residue standards threaten national export ambitions and rural livelihoods. He welcomed the TWG's diverse expertise, calling the launch the start of building a strong residue management framework. Lateef Oladimeji San, speaking for the group, welcomed the appointment and affirmed the panel's commitment to improving Nigeria's agricultural export standards.
Aliyu Abdullahi highlights export losses from chemical residue violations while launching a working group that has yet to implement any controls. The panel's future recommendations will determine whether farmers gain real support or face more bureaucratic delays. For now, those losing income to rejected shipments still wait for actionable solutions.
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