Kano Assembly raises the alarm as Tomato pest ravages farms

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The Kano State House of Assembly has raised concern over the outbreak of Tuta Absoluta, a destructive tomato pest, which is currently affecting major farming communities across the state.

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The alarm was raised by the Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources, Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim (APC–Karaye), while presenting the committee’s report on the infestation during plenary on Wednesday.

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Ibrahim said the committee was mandated to assess the situation following a motion of urgent public importance moved by Ali Lawan Kiyawa (APC–Bagwai/Shanono), who drew attention to the spread of the pest in his constituency.

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He said findings showed that the infestation had spread across key tomato-producing areas, including Bagwai, Shanono, Rogo, Tofa, Bunkure, Kura, Garun Malam, Rano, Kibiya, and parts of Tudun Wada and Dawakin Kudu local government areas.

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According to him, Tuta Absoluta attacks tomato crops at all stages of growth, destroying leaves, stems, flowers and fruits, leading to significant crop losses if not properly managed.

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“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,” he said.

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The committee urged the House to call on the state government and relevant stakeholders to take urgent steps to contain the pest and reduce its spread.

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It also recommended immediate support for the Kano State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority, including the provision of insecticides, pheromone traps, sprayers and protective equipment to manage the outbreak.

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Other recommendations included the deployment of extension workers to affected communities, farmer sensitisation on integrated pest management, collaboration with local governments, and measures to curb the sale of substandard agrochemicals.

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The committee further called for relief support for affected farmers and strengthened collaboration with research institutions and development partners.

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