A Professor of Nematology at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Monioluwa Omolara Olaniyi, has unveiled the devastating effects of plant-parasitic nematodes on Nigerian agriculture, warning that the little-known pests silently undermine food production and farmer livelihoods.
Speaking at NOUN’s 36th inaugural lecture in Abuja, Olaniyi explained that nematodes, which attack crop roots beneath the soil, often stunt growth, reduce yields, and open pathways for other diseases. Their damage, she noted, is frequently mistaken for nutrient deficiency or drought stress, leaving many farmers unaware of the true cause of declining harvests.
She identified staple crops such as vegetables, cereals, legumes, and tubers as the worst affected, stressing that nematode infestations not only erode incomes but also pose a direct threat to Nigeria’s food security. Climate change, intensive monocropping, and poor farm hygiene, she said, further worsen the problem by allowing worm populations to thrive across farming seasons.
Presenting outcomes from decades of research, Olaniyi highlighted sustainable approaches to nematode management, including correct diagnosis, clean planting materials, and eco-friendly control methods that reduce reliance on harmful pesticides. These strategies, she added, safeguard the environment while supporting resilient food systems in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Olufemi Peters, commended Olaniyi’s pioneering research, describing it as crucial to bridging laboratory science and field practice. He noted that nematology offers practical solutions for farmers and policymakers alike as Nigeria pursues sustainable agriculture and food security.
Olaniyi, a former Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the university, reaffirmed her commitment to advancing nematology research, mentoring young scientists, and fostering innovations that integrate indigenous knowledge with modern science to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural resilience.
