Climate shifts and changing human activity have increasingly exposed Nigerian farms to destructive pests, a concern that dominated discussions as the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security began reviewing a new National Integrated Pest and Plant Disease Management Strategy in Abuja.
Experts at the meeting noted that rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, expanded trade routes and shifting ecosystems have created conditions that favour the spread of crop destroying insects and plant diseases.
These pressures have contributed to declining harvests and rising production losses across several farming regions.
The gathering at the Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute brought together researchers, government officials, private sector actors and development partners to evaluate the draft strategy and agree on a coordinated national plan.
Participants stressed the need for stronger surveillance systems, timely warning mechanisms and faster response structures to limit the spread of dangerous pests.
Grace Iwendi, Director of the Plant Health and Pest Control Services Department, explained that the review aims to blend expert insight with international best practices.
She said the objective is to equip Nigeria with a clear and science-based roadmap for managing threats such as locusts, armyworms, invasive plant pathogens and the persistent attacks by quelea birds.
According to her, the country must build a more prepared and better coordinated system if it is to protect crop yields and safeguard food supplies. She described the workshop as an opportunity to refine practical steps that can be implemented nationwide.
Permanent Secretary Marcus O. Ogunbiyi highlighted the economic setbacks caused by repeated outbreaks of Fall Armyworm, Ginger blight, Tuta absoluta and other destructive species. He emphasised that smallholder farmers have borne the heaviest burden since many lack the resources to recover from frequent infestations.
He added that the renewed strategy would give priority to prevention, early detection and sustainable management that relies on Integrated Pest Management principles. These include biological, cultural, mechanical and chemical methods used in combination to achieve long term control.
The Ministry also recognised the continued technical support of partners such as the Food and Agriculture Organisation which has been working with Nigeria to improve its pest control infrastructure and national readiness.
Officials said once the strategy is fully validated it will serve as a guide for long term action to protect plant health, strengthen food security and improve resilience in the agricultural sector.
