Tomato farmers in Kano State are facing renewed hardship following the resurgence of Tuta Absoluta, a devastating crop disease that has continued to destroy tomato farms across several parts of the state.
Despite years of research and interventions by agricultural institutions such as the Audu Bako college of Agriculture, Dambatta the disease remains a persistent threat to tomato cultivation in the region. International organizations have also attempted to provide support in combating the disease, but their efforts have so far yielded limited results.
The Kano State chapter of the Tomato Growers Association of Nigeria (TOGAN) confirmed the latest outbreak, saying the disease has affected farms in local government areas including Garun Malam, Kura, Bunkure, and Bagwai.
Chairman of the association, Alhaji Sani Danladi Yadakwari, told journalists that the outbreak has led to massive losses, forcing many farmers to abandon tomato farming.
“Farmers who noticed the early signs of the disease alerted the association. Upon investigation, we confirmed that it is the same Tuta Absoluta that has returned to our farms,”; Yadakwari said.
He explained that farmers in the state have suffered from repeated outbreaks over the years, which has discouraged many from continuing with tomato production.
Yadakwari said the association has written to the Kano State Ministry of Agriculture to formally report the latest outbreak and is currently awaiting a response.
“This disease was first identified in the state in 2016 and has since continued to destroy tomato farms despite our efforts. We have taken all necessary steps to notify the authorities,”; he added.
The resurgence of the disease has already begun to affect supply in major markets across the state, with reports indicating a sharp increase in tomato prices, now selling above ₦75 per unit.
Stakeholders say although government agencies and farmers have intensified efforts to address the issue, the impact remains minimal as the disease continues to spread.
