Insights to support enforcement of the ban on usage of the neurotoxic chlorpyrifos in Nigeria: A review

Abstract

The ban on Chlorpyrifos (O, O-diethyl O-3, 5, 6-trichloro-2-pyridyl phosphorothioate) by the Federal Government of Nigeria is a laudable achievement that has been long overdue. Chlorpyrifos, a wide-ranged chlorinated organophosphate insecticide, is mainly applied for the prevention of pests on different crops as well as lawns and ornamental plants. The uncontrolled use of this pesticide and other similar chemicals by farmers has led to the contamination of natural resources with an unplanned human risk exposure. Chlorpyrifos, is a neurotoxin well known to have properties that inhibit the acetylcholinesterase, leading to prevention of the transmission of nerve signals. There are also documented negative psychological and cognitive effects in exposed infants, as well as other chronic illnesses associated with exposure to Chlorpyrifos. Several countries have led by example and have banned the use of chlorpyrifos, and more countries are reviewing its usage. A number of Studies had revealed its high usage in Nigeria but by concerted efforts, the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (07 March 2022) banned the use of Chlorpyrifos. This is a commendable step and regulatory agencies must continue to consolidate the gains so far made in phasing out the chemical. The review concludes by making some recommendation to policy and other stakeholders to facilitate the journey to total compliance.