Nigeria Launches Digital Tool for Plant Disease Surveillance

On July 22, 2026, Nigeria hosted the Central and West African Virus Epidemiology (WAVE) Regional Convening in Abuja, aimed at strengthening the surveillance of transboundary plant diseases across Africa. The event was opened by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, who underscored the significance of plant health in ensuring food security and economic development.

He highlighted the threats posed by various transboundary plant pests and diseases, exacerbated by climate change, and emphasized the need for early detection and coordinated responses. The Minister announced the unveiling of a new digital tool designed to facilitate faster, evidence-based decision-making during disease outbreaks, thereby enhancing emergency response systems.

He noted that Nigeria would serve as the demonstration case for this tool, reflecting its commitment to modernizing agriculture. The Minister acknowledged partnerships with CABI and other institutions in strengthening plant health systems across Africa.