Cassava Mosaic Virus Threatens Nigeria

The Central and West African Virus Epidemiology for Root and Tuber Crops>>> (WAVE), in collaboration with Southern University of Science and Technology, has launched a sensitisation campaign for cassava farmers in Nigeria — Kebbi State>>> to combat the potential spread of a new and deadly cassava mosaic virus, specifically the East African Cassava Mosaic Disease Uganda variant>>>. This variant, already reported in some West African countries but not yet in Nigeria>>>, is highly devastating and can lead to total crop loss. The campaign, led by Country Director Isa Umar Ibrahim>>>, aims to educate farmers on disease symptoms, encourage early reporting, and implement rapid response measures. Demonstration plots have been established to boost productivity and improve disease management. Nigeria>>>'s status as the world's largest cassava producer makes it particularly vulnerable to catastrophic economic and food security impacts if the virus enters the country.