Kano Assembly urges immediate action to combat tomato pest outbreak

The Kano State House of Assembly has demanded immediate action after the spread of the tomato pest Tuta absoluta, which is damaging farms across several local government areas.

The request was made on Wednesday by Ahmed Ibrahim, Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources (APC, Karaye), during a presentation of the committee’s findings to fellow lawmakers.

Ibrahim said the committee conducted an assessment following a motion of urgent public importance raised by Ali Lawan Kiyawa (APC, Bagwai/Shanono) concerning the infestation in parts of his constituency.

He noted that the pest has now reached many key tomato‑producing communities, including Bagwai, Shanono, Rogo, Tofa, Bunkure, Kura, Garun Malam, Rano, Kibiya, and portions of Tudun Wada and Dawakin Kudu.

Ibrahim explained that the insect harms tomatoes at every growth stage—affecting leaves, stems, flowers and fruit—and results in substantial losses for farmers.

“The situation is serious and has wide implications. It is not only affecting farmers but also contributing to low tomato supply and rising prices across the country,” he said.

The committee urged the state government to respond swiftly by providing pesticides, spraying equipment, protective gear and other inputs through the Kano State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority.

It also recommended deploying extension workers to farming communities, offering farmer training on pest management, and strengthening monitoring of agrochemical products.

Lawmakers emphasized that urgent measures are essential to safeguard food production and curb further losses in the affected areas of the state.