SANI DUTSINMA
Kebbi State Government has activated its emergency response plan following a fresh invasion of migratory quelea birds threatening dry season rice production in five local government areas.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Alhaji Shehu Muazu, disclosed this to journalists in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday, 19th June 2026.
Muazu said the birds, _Quelea quelea_, invaded fadama areas in Argungu, Gwandu, Birnin Kebbi, Kalgo and Bunza within the last 72 hours.
He noted that the birds move in massive flocks and can destroy entire hectares of grain within hours, with significant damage already recorded in early-planted fields.
Governor Nasir Idris has directed the ministry to deploy surveillance, chemical control and technical support to curtail the outbreak, the commissioner added.
Agricultural extension workers and crop protection officers have been sent to map infested zones and monitor bird movements daily.
Muazu confirmed that Fenthion 5EC has been secured and ground spraying has begun, with daily field demonstrations and early warning messages aired on radio.
He urged farmers and residents to avoid consuming birds killed during spraying, report locations of dead birds for clearance, and desist from using unapproved chemicals which endanger health and the environment.
A second phase of aerial spraying will commence once security and aviation permits are secured.
The state is also coordinating with neighbouring states since the birds do not respect boundaries.
Muazu commended traditional rulers and farmers for their vigilance and assured them of government’s commitment to protect farms and food security.
