Mrs. Fadila M. Kurfi
Recognising the role of pesticide regulators in suicide preventionPesticide regulators: the hidden heroes of suicide prevention
For World Suicide Prevention Day 2026, we celebrate and recognise the important role of pesticide regulators. By limiting access to acutely toxic pesticides – a highly lethal method of suicide – they are making a significant contribution to global suicide prevention.
Name
Mrs. Fadila M. Kurfi
Job role
Assistant Director, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)
Country
Nigeria
Summary of activity
According to recent reports, more than 50% of pesticides used in Nigeria are classified as highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs). Furthermore, a third of all suicides are due to chemical poisoning.
Mrs Fadila, an Assistant Director at NAFDAC, helps lead the work of the agency, which regulates the manufacture, trade, and use of food, drugs, chemicals, including pesticides, and consumer products in Nigeria. Banning high-risk regulated products is projected to yield significant multi-sector impacts on public health, environment and the economy.
In 2020, Nigeria banned three HHPs, and is considering further bans.
Why is this work important to you?
“Building on previous bans of highly hazardous pesticides, and in line with its regulatory mandate, NAFDAC enforces strict controls on agrochemicals, including pesticides, to safeguard public health. Identifying HHPs according to FAO/WHO criteria will strengthen NAFDAC's regulatory framework, ensures compliance with international best practices, and guarantees product safety and integrity across Nigeria.”