LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Kano State House of Assembly has expressed concern over the spread of Tuta Absoluta, a destructive tomato pest blamed for heavy crop losses affecting several farming communities in the state.
The warning was raised during plenary on Wednesday by Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim while presenting the report of the House Standing Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.
According to Ibrahim, the committee was directed to investigate the outbreak after Ali Lawan Kiyawa moved a motion of urgent public importance over the spread of the pest in Bagwai and Shanono communities.
The committee’s findings showed that the infestation has spread across major tomato-producing areas, including Bagwai, Shanono, Rogo, Tofa, Bunkure, Kura, Garun Malam, Rano, Kibiya, parts of Tudun Wada, Dawakin Kudu local government areas.
Tuta Absoluta is known for attacking tomato plants at every stage of growth. The pest destroys leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits, often leading to severe crop damage if not properly controlled.
Findings also reported that the pest outbreak is responsible for the rising tomato prices, and growing threats to food supply across the country.
“The outbreak has severe consequences, not only for farmers but for the state and the nation as a whole, causing a shortage of tomatoes and driving up prices nationwide,” Ibrahim said.
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The committee therefore urged the state government and relevant stakeholders to take immediate steps to stop the spread of the pest before the situation worsens.
Among its recommendations, the lawmakers called for urgent support to the Kano State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority through the supply of insecticides, pheromone traps, sprayers, and protective equipment needed to manage the outbreak effectively.
In addition, the committee advised the deployment of agricultural extension workers to affected communities to educate farmers on integrated pest management practices.
The lawmakers also recommended stronger collaboration between state agencies, local governments, research institutions, and development partners to improve response efforts.
Concern was equally raised over the circulation of substandard agrochemicals, with the committee urging authorities to strengthen monitoring measures to protect farmers from ineffective products.
Relief support for affected farmers was also proposed to help reduce economic losses already caused by the infestation.
The outbreak has renewed concerns about food security and agricultural sustainability in northern Nigeria, especially at a time when rising food prices continue to place pressure on households across the country.
