Business
Understanding the Principle of Organic Agriculture Practice Feature
By Ebere Agozie
Organic agriculture is a holistic production management system which enhances agro-ecosystem health, utilizing both traditional and scientific knowledge. Organic agricultural system relies on ecosystem management rather than external agricultural inputs (IFOAM Organics International).
The IFOAM Organics International is the worldwide umbrella organisation for organic agriculture movements which represents close to 800 affiliates in 117 countries.
The European Union organic standard also included that organic agriculture practices involve the application of high animal welfare standards and a production method in line with the preference of certain consumers for products developed using natural substances and processes.
From the explanations above, one then begins to wonder, what is the difference between organic and conventional agricultural practices?
Dr Olugbenga AdeOluwa, the Country Coordinator of Ecological Organic Agriculture (EOA) Initiative in Nigeria said that organic agriculture `is one of the easily misconstrued aspects of agriculture’’.
He said that while the popularity of organic food and non- food products continue to increase, there are still plenty of people who don’t know what organic food and products are or how these differ from regular or conventional ones.
“There are established specific requirements that must be verified before any products can be labeled organic and must demonstrate that they protect natural resources and conserve biodiversity.
“In organic farming, the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, irradiation, sewage sludge, hormones, antibiotics and genetic engineering is strictly prohibited.
“Whereas farmers using conventional methods might spray synthetic chemical fertilizers to promote plant growth, organic farmers would, instead, apply natural fertilizers such as compost manure to feed the soil and the plants“.
AdeOluwa said that where the conventional farmer would use insecticides for pest control, the organic farmer would make use of beneficial insects, birds or traps.
“While the conventional farmer might use chemical herbicides for weed control, the organic farmer would rotate crops, use cover crops, till the dirt, engage mechanical weeding, hand-weed or mulch to manage the weeds.
“Similarly, producers of organic beef, pork, poultry and other meat products use preventative measures such as rotational grazing, a wholesome diet, clean housing, access to the outdoors and botanicals: in contrast to the conventional producers who give animals hormones to spur growth and antibiotics to prevent disease.’’
He said that sustainability of environmental resources and safety are important components of organic agriculture which are lacking in conventional agriculture practice currently taught in schools.
“There is a difference between organic agriculture and organic chemistry, therefore proper understanding of organic agriculture is needed for effective engagement of stakeholders in the value chain of agriculture, of which academic institutions are major.
“There is a need for curriculum development in Nigeria to incorporated organic agriculture into the Degree and National Diploma programmes in the country.’’
AdeOluwa, who is also a lecturer at the University of Ibadan said the curricula of Institutions must address the issue of the four principles of organic agriculture.
He said that for produce to be called organic it must have gone through and observed all the principles of organic agriculture practice.
“These include the `Principle of Health’ to sustain and enhance the health of soil, plant, animal and human as one and indivisible.
“Principle of Ecology` that is based on, and working with, living ecological systems and cycles, emulate them and help sustain them.
“The Principle of Fairness’ built upon relationships that ensure fairness with regard to the common environment and life opportunities.
“The Principle of Care which should be managed in a precautionary and responsible manner to protect the health and wellbeing of current and future generations and the environment“.
He unequivocally maintained that organic agriculture is necessary to save the planet from the misuse of harmful chemicals and protect fragile soil ecosystems.
He is also of the opinion that a proper understanding of organic agriculture would address challenges of low yields and intensification of production.
Prof. Victor Olowe, the President, Association of Organic Agriculture Practitioners of Nigeria lent his voice to why people should practice organic farming.
He said that health risks associated with exposure to pesticides are among the main considerations when looking at the reasons for the world to go organic.
“Farmers and their families are the most affected by pesticides, so also are the people who live in communities near the points of application of toxic pesticides, where pesticide drift and water contamination are common.’’
He said that even pregnant women working in the fields unwittingly expose their unborn babies to toxic pesticides but that in organic agriculture practice, their health would be protected.
“Organic agriculture does not utilize these toxic chemicals and thus eliminates this enormous health hazard to workers, their families, and their communities.
“Organic food can feed us and keep us healthy without producing the toxic effects of chemical agriculture.
“Also, in addition to lacking the toxic residues of conventional foods, organic food is more nutritious: It is richer in nutrients, in particular, organic acids and polyphenolic compounds, which have been shown to have human health benefits as antioxidants.’’
According to Olowe, `Food security is an existing global challenge: Everyone has to have stable access to an adequate quantity of nutritious and affordable supply of food that is subject to both quantitative and qualitative requirements.
“When you see the word `organic’ on a label or a package, it means the product was grown or made according to the strict standards (without the use of toxic, persistent chemicals, GMOs, antibiotics or hormones).’’
One could at this point ask, if organic agriculture is as important to healthy food security as the organic experts say, why is organic farming not yet widely adopted?
Mr Joseph Nwana, an agriculturist has this to say:
“Because farmers are not patient enough, they want immediate effects so they resort to the application of synthetic fertilizers and added to this is the fact that it is difficult to obtain organic fertilizers.
“Also, organically grown produce does not have properly organised markets at the moment, and governments have not put in enough efforts to propagate the benefits of organic agriculture.
“Organic agriculture may have lower yields and would therefore need more land to produce the same amount of food as conventional farms.
“This will result in more widespread deforestation and biodiversity loss, thus undermining the environmental benefits of organic practices.’’
Mr Ernest Aubee, Head, Agriculture Division, ECOWAS Commission Abuja says Nigeria is one of the leading countries in West Africa that have taken the lead in efforts to mainstream organic agriculture in school curricula.
Aubee, who is also Chairman of the Regional Steering Committee, Ecological Organic Agriculture (EOA) Initiative in West Africa said this will help to inculcate the principles of organic agriculture in the consciousness of future generations.
“This will help see how best to mainstream organic agriculture into the school curriculum to encourage and promote its sustainability.
“What Nigeria is doing in organic agriculture will benefit, not only Nigeria as a country, but also the other ECOWAS member states.
“This is the time for us as a continent to pay closer attention to what we eat.
“We read in the media all the time stories about contaminated foods and as a result we must be careful what we eat. This is important because that is part of what should define our personality and the population of the members of ECOWAS states“.
He encouraged other ECOWAS member states to follow suit and start work immediately on how best to make sure that organic agriculture becomes an integral part of their curriculum from primary to the highest level of education.
“In attempting to do this, we must not stop at just one level, we should start from the base, from the primary to the highest level of education,” he advised.
FirstBank Makes Home Ownership Possible for Nigerians with Single-Digit Interest Rate Loan
For millions of Nigerians, homeownership has long felt like an ambition deferred. Squeezed by rising property prices, persistent double-digit inflation and high commercial lending rates, the dream of owning a home has remained just that – a dream.
But that narrative is quietly changing. Thanks to FirstBank.
The N1 Trillion Intervention Reshaping Access
In partnership with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF), FirstBank has unveiled a mortgage opportunity that could redefine access to housing finance in Nigeria.
Backed by the Federal Government’s N1trillion mortgage fund, the initiative is designed to empower Nigerians with affordable, long-term credit to own their homes.
9.75% Interest Rate in a 30% Lending Environment
MREIF is priced at 9.75% per annum, dramatically lower than prevailing commercial loan rates. Eligible Nigerians can access up to N100 million and repay within 20 years. This translates into significantly more manageable monthly repayments and greater long-term financial stability.
Built for Salary Earners, Entrepreneurs and the Diaspora
The MREIF mortgage facility has been structured to be inclusive. It is available to salary account holders, business owners and diaspora customers. Whether you are a young professional aiming to exit the rent cycle, an entrepreneur building generational stability, or you’re a Nigerian abroad looking to secure assets locally, the product opens a pathway that has historically been out of reach for many.
Taking the First Step
For those who have been waiting for the right time, this is definitely it. The question is no longer whether homeownership is possible. The real question is: will you act before the window narrows?
Visit https://www.firstbanknigeria.com/personal/loans/mreif-home-loan/ and in no time you could be the latest homeowner in town.
Alpha Morgan Bank Deepens Presence in Abuja with New Branch in Utako
Marking another milestone in its expansion drive, Alpha Morgan Bank has opened a new branch in Utako, Abuja, reinforcing its strategy of building closer institutional ties within key business communities and bringing its financial expertise closer to individuals, and enterprises driving the city’s growth.
The new branch, located at Plot 1121 Obafemi Awolowo Way, Utako, Abuja is strategically positioned to serve individuals, entrepreneurs, and corporate clients within Utako and surrounding districts.
The expansion follows the Bank’s recently concluded Economic Review Webinar held in February 2026, as the bank continues to position as a thought-leader in the financial services industry.
Speaking on the opening, Ade Buraimo, Managing Director of Alpha Morgan Bank, said the move underscores the Bank’s commitment to accessibility and service excellence.
“Proximity matters in banking. As communities grow and commercial activity expands, financial institutions also evolve to meet customers where they are. The Utako Branch allows us to deliver our services to people in that community efficiently while maintaining the high standards our customers expect,”
The Utako location will provide a full suite of retail and corporate banking services, including account opening, deposits, transfers, business banking solutions, and financial advisory support.
Customers and members of the public are invited to visit the new Utako Branch to experience the Bank’s approach to satisfying banking.
Dangote Refinery Prioritises Domestic Supply Amid Global Energy Turbulence
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“Nigeria insulated from international fuel shocks as Dangote Petroleum commits to uninterrupted local delivery.”
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising the domestic market, pledging to shield Nigerians from the ripple effects of ongoing global energy disruptions. The assurance, delivered in Lagos on 5 March 2026, comes as international refinery operations experience shutdowns or reduced output due to escalating Middle East geopolitical tensions, which have sent crude oil and petroleum product prices soaring worldwide.
“Our mandate remains clear: Nigeria’s local market takes precedence. In times of global supply shocks, we will continue to ensure that domestic availability of petrol, diesel, and kerosene is uninterrupted,” said Mr. Folorunsho Alakija, spokesperson for Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
The refinery’s declaration arrives amid mounting concerns over fuel scarcity, triggered by export restrictions imposed by major international producers, including China, and shipping delays that have further tightened global petroleum supply chains. Industry analysts have hailed the domestic focus as a critical buffer against volatility that could otherwise push Nigeria into deeper energy insecurity.
Domestic Shield Against Global Disruption
Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest oil processing facility, has leveraged its multi-million-barrel refining capacity to mitigate Nigeria’s historical dependence on imported petroleum products. The company emphasised that prioritising local supply provides a strategic advantage in insulating the nation from international market shocks.
“Our refinery’s scale allows Nigeria to withstand short-term external disruptions. We have the infrastructure and capacity to meet local demand even when global supply chains falter,” explained Mr. Chijioke Okonkwo, Operations Director at Dangote Refinery.
The proactive approach is particularly significant as several international refineries have either reduced throughput or temporarily halted operations, causing a global scarcity of refined products. Experts warn that without domestic cushioning, fuel prices in Nigeria could have surged sharply, exacerbating inflationary pressures in a fragile economy.
Managing Costs While Prioritising Supply
In response to rising procurement costs for crude oil amid the international crisis, Dangote Refinery introduced a modest ₦100 per litre increase in the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), absorbing roughly 20 percent of the cost escalation to lessen the impact on consumers.
“We are balancing operational sustainability with affordability. While global prices have risen sharply, we have chosen to absorb a significant portion to protect Nigerian households and businesses,” noted Mr. Emmanuel Adeyemi, Chief Finance Officer.
This pricing strategy underscores the refinery’s dual focus: ensuring uninterrupted supply while cushioning the public from abrupt spikes that could destabilize economic activity. Industry observers have lauded the approach as pragmatic, considering the volatility in international oil markets.
Strategic Distribution Initiatives
Beyond refining, Dangote Petroleum has initiated Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered trucks to enhance nationwide distribution efficiency. The initiative seeks to reduce logistics costs and carbon emissions while ensuring a more reliable delivery network to petrol stations across urban and rural areas.
“Logistics is a critical part of the energy supply chain. By deploying CNG-powered trucks, we reduce dependency on expensive diesel, lower delivery costs, and improve supply reliability across the country,” explained Ms. Funke Adedoyin, Head of Logistics Operations.
This strategic move reflects a broader commitment to modernising Nigeria’s petroleum distribution infrastructure, reducing bottlenecks that have historically contributed to scarcity at retail outlets.
Implications for National Energy Security
Nigeria has historically struggled with fuel imports to meet domestic demand, making the country vulnerable to international market fluctuations. Dangote Refinery’s prioritisation of local supply mitigates this vulnerability by leveraging home-grown refining capacity, which allows for timely access to petroleum products and less reliance on foreign shipments.
“With Dangote Refinery leading local prioritisation, Nigeria is less exposed to global fuel shocks. The country is moving towards self-reliance in petroleum product supply,” commented Dr. Halima Suleiman, energy sector analyst.
Experts note that sustained operations at the refinery not only enhance energy security but also preserve foreign exchange, reduce import bills, and stabilise domestic market prices.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Market Stability
The refinery’s commitment is part of a broader corporate responsibility framework. Dangote Petroleum continues to engage with government agencies and regulatory bodies, ensuring that domestic supply is coordinated with Nigeria’s Petroleum Product Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) to prevent panic buying and market distortions.
“We are in constant consultation with the government to ensure that our supply strategies align with national economic priorities,” said Mr. Alakija.
Such collaboration helps avert artificial shortages, stabilises pump prices, and maintains confidence in the domestic fuel market. Analysts argue that this approach exemplifies how private sector capabilities can complement governmental policies to enhance national resilience.
Navigating Global Uncertainties
The refinery operates in a complex global environment, where geopolitical crises, shipping constraints, and crude oil volatility can trigger disruptions. Dangote Petroleum’s domestic-first approach positions Nigeria to weather such crises more effectively.
“Global uncertainties are unavoidable, but our infrastructure and strategy ensure that Nigerians remain insulated from immediate shocks,” said Mr. Okonkwo.
This emphasis on resilience aligns with global best practices, where national refining capacity is leveraged to protect local markets from international supply disruptions.
Stakeholder Reactions
The government, civil society, and industry stakeholders have welcomed Dangote Petroleum’s strategy. Officials from the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources noted that prioritising local supply aligns with Nigeria’s energy security policies and reduces the burden of foreign exchange expenditures on crude imports.
“Dangote Refinery is demonstrating leadership. Its domestic prioritisation ensures that the Nigerian economy remains insulated during turbulent global markets,” said Dr. Tunji Olumide, Special Adviser on Energy.
Consumers have also expressed cautious optimism. Retail operators and commuters reported steadier fuel availability in Lagos and other cities, though concerns remain about sustained pricing and distribution efficiency.
The Road Ahead
While Dangote Refinery’s strategy provides immediate relief, experts argue that long-term stability requires further investments in alternative energy, diversified refining infrastructure, and strategic reserves. This ensures that Nigeria can withstand global shocks without relying excessively on imports or temporary supply adjustments.
“Short-term measures like prioritising local supply are critical, but long-term energy security demands diversification, renewables adoption, and consistent policy implementation,” said Dr. Suleiman.
The refinery is exploring additional initiatives, including expanding storage capacity, upgrading pipeline networks, and adopting technology-driven monitoring systems to ensure supply continuity across the country.
Final Take
By prioritising domestic fuel supply amid global market turbulence, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has demonstrated its role as a stabilising force in Nigeria’s energy sector. Through strategic logistics, modest pricing adjustments, and engagement with government regulators, the refinery is insulating the nation from international shocks while maintaining operational sustainability.
“Our responsibility extends beyond profitability; it’s about ensuring Nigerians have reliable access to essential fuel. We take that mandate seriously,” concluded Mr. Adeyemi.
The refinery’s actions offer a blueprint for how large-scale domestic capacity can protect national economies in times of global energy instability, underscoring the critical intersection of private sector resilience, public policy, and national energy security.
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