An agronomist, Dr Rashida Bala, has cautioned farmers against continuous misuse of chemical fertilisers without proper knowledge of the soil types, to avoid long-term damage to the farmlands.

She said this during an interview on Friday in Bauchi.

Ms Bala urged farmers to begin a gradual transition from chemical to organic fertilisers.

She warned that chemical fertilisers, when washed into water sources by rain, could contaminate the environment, endanger livestock and communities

The crop scientist said that integrating organic inputs was key to sustaining soil fertility and producing healthy food for consumption.

She said, “Many farmers opt for chemical fertilisers due to their quick results, but these substances pose serious health risks to humans, animals, and degrade the soil over time.’’

According to Ms Bala, transition to organic farming requires patience, as it provides long-term health benefits to human and the environment.

She urged government at all levels, to train farmers the techniques to enable them to convert waste and fruit residues into organic fertilisers.

She said this would reduce reliance on harmful chemicals and empower farmers to produce safe farm inputs.

Ms Bala enjoined farmers to study the nutritional needs of their crops and embrace the use of locally sourced organic alternatives.

She added, “Such alternatives offer a more sustainable approach to increasing agricultural productivity and ensuring food safety.” 

(NAN)