Pests Ravage Dry Season Farms In Bauchi

An unknown pest has devastated vegetable farms in Bara, Kirfi LGA, and parts of Tafawa Balewa LGA in Bauchi State, primarily affecting green and red peppers and spreading to other crops like maize. Farmer Abubakar Ahmadu from Tashar Turmi noted that these pests resist pesticides and cause leaves to shrink, blacken, and dry out. The pests attack both the foliage and roots, ruining entire crops.

Ahmadu and other farmers, including Haruna Yakubu and Danazumi A. Abdullahi, have tried various control methods without success. They are calling for urgent government intervention, as the infestation threatens their livelihoods and the region’s food security. Despite reporting the issue to local authorities, the Bauchi State Ministry of Agriculture has not been informed.
Source: Daily Trust

OUR REVIEW
The unknown pest devastating vegetable farms in Bara, Kirfi LGA, and Tafawa Balewa LGA in Bauchi State pose a severe threat to the agricultural value chain. Affecting primarily green and red peppers and now spreading to maize, these pests resist pesticides, causing significant crop damage by attacking both foliage and roots.

Farmers like Abubakar Ahmadu, Haruna Yakubu, and Danazumi A. Abdullahi have exhausted their options and are now appealing for urgent government intervention. This pest infestation jeopardizes the livelihoods of farmers and threatens food security in the region.

The lack of communication between local authorities and the Bauchi State Ministry of Agriculture exacerbates the problem. Immediate action is needed to contain the pest spread, including the deployment of effective pest control measures and technical support for farmers. Addressing this issue promptly can prevent further losses, stabilize the agricultural sector, and ensure food supply continuity.”