Tomato farmers in Kano State have expressed growing concern over the outbreak of Tuta absoluta, a destructive pest widely known for causing severe damage to tomato crops and threatening agricultural productivity.
The outbreak has reportedly affected several tomato-producing communities, raising fears of reduced harvests financial losses and possible increases in tomato prices within local markets.
Farmers explained that the pest attacks tomato leaves, stems and fruits, significantly reducing crop quality and yield if not properly controlled. Many producers noted that the infestation has continued to spread despite ongoing efforts to manage the situation.
Agricultural stakeholders warned that unchecked outbreaks of Tuta absoluta could negatively impact food supply chains, worsen post-harvest losses and place additional economic pressure on smallholder farmers who depend heavily on tomato cultivation for income.
Experts have therefore called for urgent intervention through improved pest surveillance access to effective crop protection measures, farmer education and strengthened agricultural extension services.
They also emphasised the importance of adopting integrated pest management practices, including proper field sanitation, resistant crop varieties and responsible pesticide application to minimise the spread and impact of the pest.
Stakeholders further urged relevant government agencies and agricultural institutions to intensify support for affected farmers through technical assistance, awareness campaigns and timely distribution of appropriate farm inputs.
The development has renewed concerns over the vulnerability of horticultural production to pests and diseases highlighting the need for stronger agricultural resilience and sustainable crop protection strategies across Nigeria’s farming sector.
