Farmers participating in the Bakalori Irrigation Scheme across Talata Mafara, Bakura and Maradun Local Government Areas of Zamfara State have called for immediate government intervention following widespread destruction of crops by invading birds.
The appeal was made by the Chairman of the Bakalori Water Users Association, Yakubu Yahaya, during an interaction with journalists in Talata Mafara.
Yahaya disclosed that more than 1,500 farmers operating under the irrigation scheme had been affected by the infestation, which he described as a serious threat to agricultural production in the area.
“We have tried all available methods to control the birds, but they keep ravaging our farmlands. As I speak, birds have destroyed farm produce on over 250 hectares. Millions of birds are directly consuming our farm produce,” he said.
He stressed that the scale of destruction demanded swift intervention from relevant authorities.
“An emergency response is needed from government at all levels to save the remaining farmlands. About 1,500 farmers are currently affected by this disaster.
“If this situation is not addressed urgently, it will be a major setback to the state and national economy,” he warned.
Responding to the development, the Acting Director of Bird Control at the Zamfara State Ministry of Agriculture, Mahe Bala, confirmed that the ministry had received reports of the invasion from affected communities.
He stated that efforts were already underway to contain the situation and prevent further damage to farms within the affected local government areas.
“We are working to bring the situation under control. We have also forwarded the matter to the Minister of Agriculture for urgent federal intervention,” Mr Bala said.
