The Kano State House of Assembly Standing Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources has raised a high-level alert following an outbreak of Tuta Absoluta, locally known as “Sharon” which is currently devastating tomato plantations across the state.

During a plenary session on Wednesday, Committee Chairman Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim (APC-Karaye) presented a comprehensive report detailing the rapid spread of the pest and its potential to trigger a nationwide tomato scarcity

Ibrahim explained that the committee was tasked with evaluating the infestation after Ali Lawan Kiyawa (APC-Bagwai/Shanono) raised a motion of urgent public importance regarding the spread of Tuta Absoluta, commonly called “Sharon” within his constituency.

He noted that the subsequent assessment confirmed the pest has moved through major tomato-growing regions, affecting Bagwai, Shanono, Rogo, Tofa, Bunkure, Kura, Garun Malam, Rano, and Kibiya, as well as sections of the Tudun Wada and Dawakin Kudu Local Government Areas.

According to Ibrahim, Tuta Absoluta attacks tomato crops at all growth stages, destroying leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits, which leads to severe crop losses if not properly managed.

“The outbreak has severe consequences, not only for farmers but for the state and the nation as a whole, causing a shortage of tomatoes and driving up prices nationwide,” he said.

The committee chairman called on the house to direct the Kano State government and other stakeholders to as a matter of urgency take immediate action to contain the pest.

According to him, the outbreak occurs annually, mostly during the summer period. To address this, the committee recommends:

“Immediate provision of resources to Kano State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority, KNARDA, including approved insecticides, pheromone traps, sprayers, protective equipment, and other implements to manage the outbreak and prevent its spread;

“Deployment of extension workers and technical staff to farming areas, equipped with necessary working materials for early detection and management of crop diseases.

“Collaboration between KNARDA and local governments to sensitize farmers, provide training on Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and enforce regulations against fake or substandard agrochemicals.

“Strengthening state-owned agricultural research institutions and continuous collaboration with federal and NGO agencies to provide technical support to farmers.

“Provision of relief assistance to affected farmers to reduce losses.

“That the House should kindly urge the State Government to treat this matter with urgency in the interest of citizens and agricultural development,” Ibrahim added.(NAN)