ASSESSMENT OF ECOLOGICAL AND HEALTH EFFECTS OF AGROCHEMICALS ON UNIVERSITY. FARM MODIBBO ADAMA UNIVERSITY YOLA

The pervasive use of agrochemicals in modern agriculture has raised significant concerns regarding soil health, environmental sustainability, and human safety. This study assesses the effects of agrochemicals on agricultural soils within the jurisdiction of Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola, Nigeria, focusing on residue accumulation, ecological risks, and farmer practices. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating field sampling, laboratory analysis, and socio-survey techniques. Soil samples (0–15 cm depth) were collected from 50 sites across MAU’s research farms and adjacent fields in Yola South/North LGAs during the 2023 dry and wet seasons. Agrochemical residues (glyphosate, carbendazim, DDT, paraquat, and urea) were quantified using QuEChERS extraction and GC-MS analysis. Ecological risks were evaluated via Risk Quotient (RQ) models adapted for local soil organisms, while human health risks for farmers were assessed using the USEPA Hazard Index (HI). Key findings revealed widespread contamination: 83% of soils contained detectable pesticide residues, with paraquat (0.3–1.1 mg/kg) and DDT (0.2–0.7 mg/kg) exceeding international safety thresholds. Soil acidification (pH 4.8–5.5) and organic matter depletion (15–20% loss) were linked to urea overapplication. Ecological RQ values exceeded 1.0 for 45% of sites, indicating high risk to earthworms and microbial communities. Farmer surveys (n = 100) identified inadequate safety practices, with 70% unaware of agrochemical toxicity and 90% not using protective gear. The study concludes that current agrochemical practices pose severe ecological and health risks, necessitating urgent policy reforms, farmer education, and adoption of sustainable alternatives like integrated pest management (IPM) and organic fertilization. Recommendations include stringent monitoring, bans on highly hazardous chemicals, and institutional-led training programs to promote soil conservation and safer agrochemical use. This research provides a framework for sustainable soil management in semi-arid regions and contributes to achieving SDGs 2, 3, and 15.