Experts warn Kebbi farmers over destructive East African Cassava virus

Cassava farmers in Nigeria's Kebbi State face a new threat from the East African Cassava Mosaic Disease–Uganda variant, a highly destructive virus that experts warn could devastate farms and jeopardize national food security. The alert was issued during a sensitization campaign in Tungar Noma community, Argungu Local Government Area, organized by the Central and West African Virus Epidemiology for Root and Tuber Crops.

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We already have cassava mosaic disease in Nigeria, but there are about 11 other cassava diseases across Africa, especially in East Africa, which are gradually spreading westward.

Professor Ibrahim Muhammad, Country Director of the center, highlighted the urgency of the situation. He explained that while Nigeria already contends with cassava mosaic disease, other dangerous strains prevalent in East Africa are migrating westward. The Uganda variant, he noted, is particularly dangerous, with the potential to wipe out entire harvests. Although not yet confirmed in Nigeria, it has been reported in some West African nations.

The awareness program aims to educate farmers on disease identification and prevention. It also encourages them to participate in disease surveillance by promptly reporting any unusual symptoms on their cassava plants. The organization has distributed flyers with images of infected plants and contact numbers to facilitate rapid intervention. "Nigeria remains the largest producer of cassava in the world. If this disease enters the country, the consequences could be catastrophic," Professor Muhammad warned, stressing that early detection and swift response are crucial.

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The disease is highly devastating because affected farmers may harvest nothing from their farms. It has already been reported in some West African countries, though not yet in Nigeria.

The campaign is already yielding results, with farmers beginning to report suspicious symptoms. This proactive approach is vital for safeguarding Nigeria's agricultural sector, which relies heavily on cassava as a staple crop.

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Nigeria remains the largest producer of cassava in the world. If this disease enters the country, the consequences could be catastrophic.