Tomato farmers across Nigeria have raised concerns over a fresh outbreak of the Tuta Absoluta pest, warning of a looming scarcity and rising prices in markets nationwide.
In separate interviews granted on Sunday in Lagos, farmers described the situation as alarming, saying the pest, also known as the tomato leaf miner, has begun to devastate crops, especially in northern regions.
The larvae of Tuta Absoluta can destroy nearly 100% of tomato yields if not contained promptly.
Because of its rapid spread—capable of damaging crops in just 48 hours—farmers have dubbed it “Tomato Ebola.”
Rabiu Zuntu, chairman of the Tomato Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria, confirmed the outbreak began in March and has already impacted prices significantly.
“Right now, a 50kg basket of tomatoes is selling for about N30,000 in northern markets.
Before the outbreak, it was between N5,000 and N10,000—this is actually our harvest season,” he said.
Zuntu explained that the recent spike in temperatures and increased soil humidity have worsened the outbreak, which typically thrives in hot conditions.
“We can’t entirely prevent the virus because we can’t stop humidity.
But we can manage its spread through Integrated Pest Management,” he added, noting that even climate-resistant seeds remain vulnerable.
Bola Oyeleke, national president of the Tomatoes and Orchard Processors Association of Nigeria (TOPAN), said the outbreak hasn’t drastically reduced tomato availability yet, as the produce is still in season.
However, he warned that newly planted crops are at risk.
Oyeleke emphasized the need for a coordinated farming strategy to curb future infestations.
“We must begin using better technology for land preparation.
Smallholder farmers in each local government area should prepare land together to prevent pest invasions,” he said.
Tuta Absoluta remains one of the most persistent threats to tomato cultivation in Nigeria, raising concerns among stakeholders about future food security and inflation.