Experts uncover hidden risks associated with Nigeria’s roadside drying culture: dust on dining tablesLong sections of cassava, maize, rice, beans, pepper, and melon seeds, among other crops, are exposed to the sun along numerous Nigerian highways and rural roads.
It is an inexpensive and conventional technique of preservation for local farmers and processors. However, medical professionals see it as a tacit encouragement to illness.
From Ogun, Ondo and Oyo in the South-West to Benue, Kogi, and Niger in the North-Central, from Imo, Enugu and Ebonyi in the South-East to Adamawa, Taraba and Yobe in the North-East, roadside drying has become part of everyday life.
It cuts across regions, cultures and crops, turning key transport routes into open-air drying platforms.
Food intended for marketplaces and home kitchens is directly affected by the heavy dust created by passing cars.
Animals walk freely, and the naked dirt itself becomes a source of contamination. Experts caution that what appears normal is actually a dangerous national trend that is subtly making its way from agricultural roads to dining tables.
Dust Is Not Just Sand
Mrs. Adebisi, a local garri processor, stood next to a road in a village that processes cassava and gave an explanation of why farmers utilise the roadside.
“We don’t have space at home, and the sun is better near the road. We just spread it and watch it till evening,” she said.
But an environmental health specialist, Sani John, cautioned the dust landing on food is far from harmless, stating, “dust from vehicles contains carbon, oil particles and sometimes heavy metals like lead.
“When that enters food, washing later cannot remove everything. People consume it gradually over time, harming their bodies without realising it.
He claims that eating tainted food on a regular basis can result in long-term organ issues, decreased immunity, and stomach illnesses.
Food Is Wasted by Animals
Goats and chickens were observed crossing fermented rice, beans, and cassava intended for sale at a number of drying locations.