No cause for panic on maize pest

Nigerians have been assured that the army worm infestation on maize farms recorded in the South Western states; including Edo and Kogi States is already declining.

Although, losses have been incurred in the affected states, the spread of the pest which was enhanced by favourable weather condition earlier in the year is self-limiting.

Armyworm, a pest disease has was discovered in the Southwest ecology by a professor, Lateef Taiwo, alongside his team at the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Ibadan.

This destructive garden pest is said to get its name from its ability to travel in small insect armies and consume just about everything in its path.

Taiwo said the armyworm was part of the order of Lepidoptera, the larval life stage of a fall armyworm moth, adding that it can wreak havoc to crops if left to multiply.

The scientist advised farmers to maintain farm hygiene and use improved varieties of vegetables resistant to the diseases.