Written by: Omowumi Fawole Photo credit: https://www.panna.org/ Pesticides play a pivotal role in modern agricultural practices by combating pests, increasing crop yields, and ensuring food security. While they have helped farmers increase production and improve food security, their unregulated usage poses significant risks to farmers, consumers, and the environment. The indiscriminate application of these chemical compounds without proper oversight and control has raised concerns about the hidden dangers associated with their usage. Exploring the adverse effects of unregulated pesticide usage on farmers, consumers, and the environment is pertinent to shedding light on the urgent need for comprehensive regulatory measures and sustainable agricultural practices. According to Food and Agricultural Organization (2018), Nigeria is one of The Africa’s top-pesticide users, with an estimated average annual use of 164,706.52 metric tons of pesticides spread around the country. Farmers in Nigeria continue to demand more pesticides as a result of the development of agricultural activities and the occurrence of insecticide resistance among insect pests. Farmers tend to choose the deadliest chemicals because they are less expensive than newer, more benign pesticides because more benign formulations tend to be more expensive because they are covered by foreign patents and local firms are not allowed to formulate them (Ojo, 2016) . However, the low level of information, knowledge, and awareness among Nigerians on the dangers associated with the use of pesticides is highly prevalent. There is ample proof that widespread pesticide misuse in Nigeria is caused by inadequate pesticide education. The indiscriminate use of pesticides without proper guidance or supervision poses a significant threat to the health of farmers, consumers, and environment at large. Farmers, as key stakeholders in the agricultural sector, bear the brunt of unregulated pesticide usage. Their occupational exposure to these toxic chemicals poses immediate and long-term risks to their health. Direct contact with pesticides can lead to acute poisoning, resulting in symptoms ranging from nausea and dizziness to more severe neurological and respiratory complications (Rani, et al., 2021). Furthermore, prolonged exposure can cause chronic health effects, including cancer, reproductive disorders, and endocrine disruption. The physical well-being of farmers is not the only concern; the economic burden associated with pesticide-related health issues adds another layer of complexity. Increased healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and potential loss of livelihood further exacerbate the impact on farmers and their communities. Consumers too, face potential risks from unregulated pesticide usage. Pesticide residues can persist on crops and enter the food chain, reaching consumers through contaminated fruits, vegetables, grains, and other agricultural products. Consumption of such pesticide-laden food has been linked to acute poisoning incidents, particularly among vulnerable populations. Moreover, chronic exposure to low levels of pesticide residues has been associated with various health problems, including developmental disorders, hormonal imbalances, and the development of pesticide resistance in certain pathogens. These risks underscore the importance of safeguarding the food supply chain and protecting consumer health through stringent pesticide regulations and monitoring. Environmental degradation is another critical aspect intertwined with unregulated pesticide usage. The widespread application of pesticides can result in contamination of soil, water bodies, and air, with far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and biodiversity. Pesticide runoff can infiltrate groundwater, pollute rivers and lakes, and disrupt delicate aquatic ecosystems. The long-term accumulation of pesticides in soil leads to soil degradation, diminishing its fertility and impairing the natural balance of microbial communities. Furthermore, the indiscriminate use of pesticides negatively affects beneficial insects and pollinators, leading to declines in populations critical for ecosystem functioning and agricultural productivity. In conclusion, the unregulated usage of pesticides poses grave dangers to farmers, consumers, and the environment. Thereby necessitating the urgent need for comprehensive regulatory measures to control pesticide usage through effective pesticide management strategies encompassing farmer education, training on proper handling and application techniques, monitoring systems, enforcement mechanisms and Implementing integrated pest management (IPM) approaches, such as crop rotation, biological control, and cultural practices to reduce pesticide reliance and promote sustainable agriculture. Only through collective efforts can we safeguard the health and well-being of all stakeholders and ensure a sustainable future for agriculture.   Sources: [1] Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO) (2018). Statistics division. http://www.fao.org/faostat. [2] Ojo, J., (2016). Pesticides use and health in Nigeria. Ife Journal of Science, 18(4), 981-991. [3] https://ipen.org/sites/default/files/documents/sedi_nigeria_hhps_report_2021.pdf [4] Rani, L., Thapa, K., Kanojia, N., Sharma, N., Singh, S., Grewal, A. S., & Kaushal, J. (2021). An extensive review on the consequences of chemical pesticides on human health and environment. Journal of Cleaner Production, 283, 124657. [5] Pérez-Lucas, G., Vela, N., El Aatik, A., & Navarro, S. (2019). Environmental risk of groundwater pollution by pesticide leaching through the soil profile. Pesticides-use and misuse and their impact in the environment, 1-28.

Written by: Adesokan Ifeoluwa Photo credit: https://planet.outlookindia.com/   Introduction Nigeria, with its population of over 200 million people, faces various challenges related to water availability and quality. The country is plagued by poor water infrastructure and maintenance, insufficient resources to provide clean water to its citizens, particularly those living in rural areas. The water challenge in rural communities in Nigeria is a significant issue that needs to be addressed urgently. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 60 million people in Nigeria lack access to safe drinking water, with most of them residing in rural areas. In rural areas, 39% of households lack access to at least basic water supply, while only half have access to improved sanitation and almost a third (29%) practice open defecation – a fraction that has marginally changed since 1990 (WHO 2021). This is a significant concern as access to clean water is essential for human survival and development. Inadequate access to clean water can lead to various waterborne diseases, such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea. These diseases can be life-threatening, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly. The water challenge in rural communities in Nigeria can be attributed to various factors, including inadequate infrastructure and maintenance, climate change, and poor governance. Many rural communities lack proper water supply systems, which means that residents have to rely on contaminated water sources such as rivers, ponds, and open wells. Inadequate sanitation facilities also contribute to the contamination of water sources, as human and animal waste can easily seep into the water.  Climate change has also contributed to the water challenge in Nigeria. The country is experiencing longer periods of drought, which means that water sources are becoming scarcer. This has led to conflicts between communities over access to water sources, as well as increased reliance on contaminated water sources. In addition, poor governance and corruption have also played a significant role in exacerbating the water challenge in rural areas . Funds meant for the development of water infrastructure and provision of clean water have been misappropriated, leading to inadequate water supply systems and a lack of access to clean water for rural communities. The water challenge in rural communities in Nigeria has significant and wide-ranging effects on various aspects of community life, including health, sanitation, hygiene, economy, environment, social dynamics, and migration. Addressing the water challenge and ensuring access to safe and clean water is essential for improving the well-being and livelihoods of rural communities in Nigeria.   Efforts Made So Far Several efforts have been made by Government and Non-Governmental Organizations to address water challenges faced by rural communities. Rural Nurture Initiative in a bid to provide clean water to the rural dwellers of Agele Community in Ibarapa East LGA of Oyo State executed the safe rural water project. The water project met the felt needs of the community as it provided access to a clean source of water. A key learning from the water project at Agele community was the bottom-up approach adopted in the project design and implementation which promoted local participation and ownership of the water project by the community dwellers. Conclusion In conclusion, the water challenge in rural communities in Nigeria is a significant issue that requires urgent attention. The government needs to prioritize the development of water infrastructure in rural areas, as well as implement strict regulations to protect water sources from pollution. Furthermore, there is a need for increased awareness and education among rural communities to promote proper sanitation practices and the importance of access to clean water. Additionally, collaborations between government, non-governmental organizations, private sector, and local communities, community participation in water management initiatives are crucial to developing and implementing effective solutions to water challenges in rural communities in Nigeria. Source:           World Bank, (2021). Nigeria: Ensuring Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for All. Available on: https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2021/05/26/nigeria-ensuring-water-sanitation-and-hygiene-for-all

Written by: Oladimeji Ayodeji Amos Photo credit: https://www.countriestoday.com/ Introduction Maternal mortality remains a major public health challenge, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare services is limited. Every day, hundreds of women die from preventable pregnancy-related complications, and the majority of these deaths occur in low-resource settings. According to data from the World Health Organisation, maternal deaths happened approximately every two minutes, and in 2020, close to 800 women died from pregnancy- and childbirth-related causes that could have been avoided. Findings also indicated that Sub-Saharan Africa alone was responsible for almost 70% (202 000) of maternal deaths.  In 2020, low- and lower-middle-income nations sadly accounted for about 95% of all maternal deaths, the majority of which might have been avoided. Maternal mortality defined The term “maternal mortality” describes fatalities brought on by pregnancy or delivery problems. Maternal mortality is the annual number of female deaths from any cause related to or aggravated by pregnancy or its management (excluding accidental or incidental causes) during pregnancy and childbirth or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, irrespective of the duration and site of the pregnancy. Contributory Factors There are several factors that contribute to maternal mortality in rural communities, including poor access to healthcare services, lack of skilled birth attendants, and inadequate infrastructure. Many rural communities lack basic healthcare facilities, and women often have to travel long distances on bad roads to access maternal health services. This can lead to delays in receiving care, which can be fatal in emergencies. Addressing the issues To address maternal mortality in rural communities, there is a need for a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of the problem. This includes improving access to healthcare services, increasing the number of skilled birth attendants, and investing in infrastructure. One way to improve access to healthcare services is through the establishment of mobile clinics that can bring healthcare services directly to rural communities. These clinics can provide prenatal care, delivery services, and postpartum care, as well as family planning services. Mobile clinics can also serve as a platform for health education, where women can learn about maternal and child health, nutrition, and hygiene. Another critical intervention is the training of skilled birth attendants in rural communities. Skilled birth attendants are trained healthcare providers who can provide basic obstetric care, including monitoring labor, managing complications, and providing emergency obstetric care. The training of skilled birth attendants can help to reduce maternal deaths by ensuring that women have access to competent care during childbirth. Lastly, there is a need for investments in infrastructure, such as roads, electricity, and water supply, to enable women to access healthcare services. Many rural communities lack these basic amenities, which can hinder access to healthcare services, especially during emergencies. Conclusion In conclusion, ending maternal deaths in rural communities is an urgent public health challenge that requires a comprehensive approach. This includes improving access to healthcare services, training of skilled birth attendants, and investing in infrastructure. By working together, we can ensure that every woman has access to quality maternal healthcare services, regardless of where she lives.  The lives of women and newborns and most especially those in the rural communities can be saved by receiving care from qualified medical experts prior to, during, and after childbirth. Thank you for your attention!!!   Sources: UNICEF, (2023). Maternal mortality. Available on https://data.unicef.org/topic/maternal-health/maternal-mortality/ World Health Organization, (2023). Maternal mortality. Available on: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/maternal-mortality

Written by: Happiness Agboola Photo credit: https://comdis-hsd.leeds.ac.uk/   Malaria is a significant public health issue in many rural communities around the world, including in Nigeria. The disease is caused by a parasite transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes, and can cause severe illness and even death if left untreated. According to the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2018, malaria is one of the leading causes of death in Nigeria, accounting for about 25% of all deaths. In order to combat malaria in rural communities, it is important to empower these communities with the necessary knowledge, resources, and tools to prevent and treat the disease. There are several strategies and solutions that can be implemented to achieve this goal. Rural communities need to be educated about the causes, symptoms, and prevention of malaria. This can be done through community outreach programs, health fairs, and other awareness campaigns. Educating people about the importance of using mosquito nets, draining stagnant water sources, and seeking early treatment can help to prevent the spread of the disease. Rural communities often lack access to healthcare facilities, making it difficult for them to seek treatment for malaria. Increasing access to healthcare facilities, mobile clinics, and trained healthcare workers can help to improve the diagnosis and treatment of malaria in rural areas. The use of mosquito nets is an effective way to prevent malaria transmission. Distributing mosquito nets to rural communities can help to reduce the number of malaria cases in these areas. NGOs and other organizations can partner with the government to distribute free or subsidized mosquito nets to rural communities. Insecticide-treated nets are mosquito nets that have been treated with insecticide to repel and kill mosquitoes. ITNs are more effective than regular mosquito nets in preventing malaria transmission. Rural communities should be encouraged to use ITNs to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Indoor residual spraying involves spraying insecticides on the walls and ceilings of homes to kill mosquitoes that come into contact with the treated surfaces. IRS is an effective way to control mosquito populations in rural areas. Collaboration and partnership between the government, NGOs, and other stakeholders are essential for the effective prevention and treatment of malaria in rural communities. Partnerships can help to mobilize resources, coordinate efforts, and ensure that malaria prevention and treatment programs are sustainable and effective. In conclusion, empowering rural communities with the necessary knowledge, resources, and tools to prevent and treat malaria is crucial in the fight against the disease. Through education and awareness, increased access to healthcare, distribution of mosquito nets, use of insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying, and collaboration and partnership, malaria can be effectively prevented and treated in rural communities in Nigeria and around the world.   Sources: 1). Malaria Consortium (2016). Malaria prevention through insecticide treated nets. Available on ://www.malariaconsortium.org/media-downloads/802/Malaria%20prevention%20through%20insecticide%20treated%20nets#:~:text=Insecticide%2Dtreated%20net%20(ITN)%3A,for%20a%20recommended%20three%20years. 2). World Health Organization, (2017). Malaria. Available on https://www.afro.who.int/health-topics/malaria 3).World Health Organization, (n.d). GLOBAL TECHNICAL STRATEGY FOR MALARIA 2016–2030. https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/documents/global-technical-strategy-for-malaria-2016-2030.pdf  

Written by: Oladimeji Ayodeji Amos Photo credit: https://www.unicef.org/ Introduction Maternal mortality remains a major public health challenge, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare services is limited. Every day, hundreds of women die from preventable pregnancy-related complications, and the majority of these deaths occur in low-resource settings. According to data from the World Health Organisation, maternal deaths happened approximately every two minutes, and in 2020, close to 800 women died from pregnancy- and childbirth-related causes that could have been avoided. Findings also indicated that Sub-Saharan Africa alone was responsible for almost 70% (202 000) of maternal deaths.  In 2020, low- and lower-middle-income nations sadly accounted for about 95% of all maternal deaths, the majority of which might have been avoided. Maternal mortality defined The term “maternal mortality” describes fatalities brought on by pregnancy or delivery problems. Maternal mortality is the annual number of female deaths from any cause related to or aggravated by pregnancy or its management (excluding accidental or incidental causes) during pregnancy and childbirth or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, irrespective of the duration and site of the pregnancy. Contributory Factors There are several factors that contribute to maternal mortality in rural communities, including poor access to healthcare services, lack of skilled birth attendants, and inadequate infrastructure. Many rural communities lack basic healthcare facilities, and women often have to travel long distances on bad roads to access maternal health services. This can lead to delays in receiving care, which can be fatal in emergencies. Addressing the issues To address maternal mortality in rural communities, there is a need for a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of the problem. This includes improving access to healthcare services, increasing the number of skilled birth attendants, and investing in infrastructure. One way to improve access to healthcare services is through the establishment of mobile clinics that can bring healthcare services directly to rural communities. These clinics can provide prenatal care, delivery services, and postpartum care, as well as family planning services. Mobile clinics can also serve as a platform for health education, where women can learn about maternal and child health, nutrition, and hygiene. Another critical intervention is the training of skilled birth attendants in rural communities. Skilled birth attendants are trained healthcare providers who can provide basic obstetric care, including monitoring labor, managing complications, and providing emergency obstetric care. The training of skilled birth attendants can help to reduce maternal deaths by ensuring that women have access to competent care during childbirth. Lastly, there is a need for investments in infrastructure, such as roads, electricity, and water supply, to enable women to access healthcare services. Many rural communities lack these basic amenities, which can hinder access to healthcare services, especially during emergencies. Conclusion In conclusion, ending maternal deaths in rural communities is an urgent public health challenge that requires a comprehensive approach. This includes improving access to healthcare services, training of skilled birth attendants, and investing in infrastructure. By working together, we can ensure that every woman has access to quality maternal healthcare services, regardless of where she lives.  The lives of women and newborns and most especially those in the rural communities can be saved by receiving care from qualified medical experts prior to, during, and after childbirth. Thank you for your attention!!!   Sources: UNICEF, (2023). Maternal mortality. Available on https://data.unicef.org/topic/maternal-health/maternal-mortality/ World Health Organization, (2023). Maternal mortality. Available on: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/maternal-mortality