Armyworm Infestation Devastates Jigawa Farmers' Crops

In Birniwa Local Government Area of Jigawa State, farmers are grappling with significant losses as an armyworm infestation, locally known as “Maremare,” has devastated approximately 790 hectares of farmland. Farmer Yusuf Abdullahi, who planted six mudus of beans, expected to harvest over 20 bags but reported that the pest destroyed more than 90% of his crop.

The financial implications are severe, as each damaged plant represents investments in seeds, land preparation, labor, and fertilizers. The Birniwa Local Government Council has responded by providing pesticides and advice on pest management, while the state government has dispatched a technical team to assess the damage.

Other farmers, including Abba Ibrahim and Alhaji Kadai Yarda, also reported substantial losses, with Ibrahim losing over 25 bags of beans and 12 bags of sesame. The farmers are appealing for government and organizational assistance to recover from their losses, emphasizing the critical role of these crops in supporting their families.