Jigawa State farmers face crop losses from armyworm infestation

An armyworm infestation, locally known as ‘Maremare’, has destroyed approximately 790 hectares of farmland in the Birniwa Local Government Area of Jigawa State. The pest has primarily ravaged bean and sesame crops, causing significant losses for local farmers who rely on these harvests for income and household food supplies.

The Jigawa State Agricultural Transformation Agency (JATA) has deployed a technical team to assess the damage and profile affected farmers. The agency has also provided agrochemicals and technical guidance to help control the pest, which officials suggest may be linked to changing weather patterns.

In response to broader agricultural challenges, including irregular rainfall and dry spells, the Buji Local Government Area has distributed improved cowpea, sesame, and groundnut seeds to 140 farmers. This initiative, supported by the National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC) under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Seed Support programme, aims to boost food production and strengthen food security in the region.