The Federal Government has launched an emergency programme to control the spread of two major pests threatening tomato and sugarcane production in Nigeria, Business Day reported.
The intervention, aimed at containing the African Sugarcane Borer and Tuta absoluta, was flagged off at the Federal Crop Production Technology Transfer Station in Dan Hassan, Kano. The government described the situation as a national agricultural emergency due to the potential impact on food production.
Speaking at the launch, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, said the programme is designed to help farmers detect, manage and control pest infestations more effectively.
He said the initiative will focus on creating awareness among farmers and extension workers, distributing approved pest control materials, providing technical support, and promoting integrated pest management practices.
According to the minister, the move reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to food security, farmer welfare and sustainable agriculture, particularly in key farming states such as Kano.
Abdullahi noted that sugarcane plays an important role in job creation, reducing imports and supporting industries such as ethanol and bio-energy. However, he said productivity has come under threat due to the spread of the African Sugarcane Borer.
He added that the scale of the pest outbreak requires an urgent and coordinated response, stressing the need for strong collaboration between the federal and state governments, along with sustained farmer education to prevent further losses.
