Fatshimetrie: Devastating worms threaten crops in Katsina, Nigeria – AFAN President’s call to action
In the Katsina region of Nigeria, farmers face a growing threat: destructive worms that invade farmland and devour young maize, sorghum and millet plants. The alert was raised by the President of AFAN, Alhaji Yau Umar-Gojo-gojo, who highlighted the urgency of the situation during a meeting with the press in Katsina.
The worst affected areas, such as Batarawa, Mani, Daura and Funtua, are facing an infestation of these voracious worms, which compromise the survival of crops by devouring the stems, thereby hindering their growth. Affected farmers reported significant losses and expressed concern about the spread of these pests.
Umar-Gojo-gojo stressed the importance of acting quickly by using recommended insecticides to eradicate the worms and prevent their spread to other areas. He stressed that insufficient rainfall in recent weeks has favored the appearance of these parasites and called on farmers to treat their crops preventively.
Faced with this crisis, he called on the state government to intervene by providing assistance to farmers, making available chemicals to control worms and mobilizing agricultural extension officers to sensitize and support the affected communities .
He stressed that cooperation between farmers and local authorities is essential to effectively combat this menace and minimize pre-harvest losses. He also made specific recommendations for rapid and coordinated action to protect crops and guarantee food security in the region.
The current situation once again highlights the challenges facing farmers in Nigeria, facing increasing pressures from climate change and natural phenomena. It is crucial that immediate and effective measures are taken to support farmers and protect the livelihoods of farming communities in the Katsina region.