Nigeria is currently grappling with a devastating agricultural crisis as an outbreak of a crop disease popularly known as “Tomato Ebola” has led to the destruction of thousands of hectares of tomato farms across key producing states. The outbreak, which has been identified as Tuta absoluta, a notorious tomato leafminer pest, has caused an estimated economic loss of over ₦1.3 billion, particularly affecting Kano, Katsina, and Kaduna states.

The situation has raised widespread concern among farmers, traders, and policymakers, especially as tomatoes remain a staple in nearly every Nigerian kitchen.

What Is “Tomato Ebola”?

The term “Tomato Ebola” is the local nickname for Tuta absoluta, an aggressive and invasive moth species that attacks tomato crops. The pest feeds on tomato leaves, stems, and fruits, leaving them riddled with holes and drastically reducing yields.

According to the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), the pest can destroy up to 80% of a tomato harvest if not controlled in time. The current outbreak is reminiscent of the 2016 tomato crisis, which led to a severe shortage and skyrocketing prices.

“This is worse than what we faced in 2016. My farm alone lost over 80% of its yield this season,” said Malam Usman Bello, a commercial farmer in Kaduna, speaking with Daily Trust.

Economic Impact and Price Surge

According to data from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the current outbreak has already resulted in direct losses exceeding ₦1.3 billion. In Kano, Nigeria’s leading tomato-producing state, tomato markets have recorded a significant drop in supply, pushing prices from around ₦10,000 per basket to ₦45,000 in some urban centers.

This sudden price surge is hitting households hard, particularly low-income families who rely heavily on fresh tomatoes for daily cooking.

Government Response and Mitigation Plans

The Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) and state agricultural agencies have begun deploying rapid-response teams to affected regions. Efforts include the distribution of bio-pesticides, community awareness campaigns, and collaborations with international experts on pest management.

“We are working with farmers to adopt integrated pest management strategies to contain the outbreak,” said Dr. Debo Akande, Executive Director of NIHORT, during a press briefing.

Additionally, the Kano State Government has declared a “tomato emergency”, urging urgent federal intervention and support for affected farmers.

Why It Matters for Nigeria

Nigeria is Africa’s second-largest tomato producer, with annual output exceeding 1.8 million metric tonnes, but it still imports tomato paste due to post-harvest losses and poor processing capacity. This crisis further weakens food security in a country already battling inflation and soaring food prices.

The outbreak also poses a threat to over 200,000 rural jobs, particularly in the agricultural value chain, from farmhands and truck drivers to market vendors.

What Can Be Done?

Experts are calling for the following actions:

• Increased government funding for research and agricultural extension services.

• Subsidized pesticides and organic control methods for smallholder farmers.

• Improved storage and processing infrastructure to reduce reliance on raw tomato supplies.

• Public-private partnerships to strengthen the tomato industry value chain.

Consumers are also advised to explore alternative local vegetables like tatase (bell pepper) and tomato paste substitutes as temporary relief during the crisis.

Final Thoughts

The “Tomato Ebola” outbreak is not just a farming issue — it is a national food security emergency. Without swift intervention, the ripple effects could worsen inflation, disrupt nutrition, and displace thousands of farming families.

As Nigeria looks for ways to improve its agricultural resilience, stakeholders across the public and private sectors must come together to tackle recurring pest invasions and strengthen the nation’s food systems.

For more reports on agriculture, economy, and public health, visit Xamblog.com.

Last Updated on May 9, 2025 by kingstar