Farmers, civil society groups, and environmental advocates in Kano have called on the federal government to ban Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and harmful pesticides, warning of their dangers to health and the environment.
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The appeal came during a two-day agroecology training held in Gabasawa Local Government Area, where 50 farmers were trained in organic farming practices. The session was organized by the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), Surge Africa, and the GMO-Free Nigeria Alliance.
Farmers who participated in the training were introduced to practical methods of producing organic fertilizers and biopesticides with locally available resources. They were also provided with essential tools to help sustain organic farming in their communities.
Speaking at the event, Joyce Brown from HOMEF said scientific research has linked GMOs to cancer, immune system disorders, and organ damage. She also cautioned that GMOs contribute to soil degradation and reduced fertility over time.
Nasreen Al-Amin of Surge Africa added that agroecology protects ecosystems, promotes healthier food systems, and enhances community well-being. According to her, synthetic pesticides and GMOs undermine biodiversity and expose people to severe health hazards.
The coalition emphasized that with proper support for agroecology, Nigeria can achieve food security without relying on GMOs and chemical-based farming.
