The Kebbi State Government has ramped up efforts to combat a severe invasion of quelea birds that is endangering rice fields across multiple areas as the wet-season farming gets underway. This was announced by the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Shehu Mu’azu, during a press briefing in Birnin Kebbi on Friday.
Mu’azu explained that the migratory pests have swept through major Fadama agricultural zones, posing a serious risk to rice output and the livelihoods of local farmers. The infestation was first noticed within the past 72 hours, with reports already indicating damage to early-planted rice paddies.
Quelea birds are considered one of Africa’s most harmful agricultural pests, traveling in enormous flocks and capable of ravaging extensive grain fields in a matter of hours. “Without prompt control measures, these birds can destroy an entire hectare of grain in just a few hours,” the commissioner warned.
The worst-hit local government areas include Birnin Kebbi, Gwandu, Argungu, Kalgo, and Bunza, where large congregations of the birds have been sighted. In response, the government has dispatched agricultural extension officers and crop protection experts to track bird movements, evaluate the extent of the destruction, and coordinate mitigation strategies. Surveillance teams have pinpointed nine primary roosting sites across the impacted regions.
Mu’azu also revealed that ground spraying operations using pesticides have already started, while preparations for aerial spraying are in progress, pending the necessary regulatory approvals. The state remains committed to safeguarding its rice production and the livelihoods of thousands of farmers dependent on it.