The Federal Government has commenced the aerial spray against Quela birds and other pests in Bauchi State.
The aerial spray will cover 17 local government areas of the state that are prone to the invasion of the birds.
The exercise is being conducted by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in conjunction with the state government.
Governor, Mohammed Abubakar officially launched the exercise against the birds and other pests, saying that controlling the birds and other pests will help farmers reduce the loss they suffered due to the massive influx and destruction by the birds.
He said that about 50,600 metric tons of various crops representing 59 percent crop valued at over N6 billion worth of farm produce has been lost to Quela birds and other pests in the state.
“In 2016 dry farming season, farmers in the state suffered monumental loss due to massive influx of birds which was believed to have migrated from other neighbouring states of which 17 local government were affected.
“This development has rendered many farmers handicapped. As a result of this, they were unable to farm in the just concluded rainy season cultivation.
“Following the outbreak, the government provided pesticides and logistics to field workers for ground control in order to minimise the negative impact of the Quela birds on the farmlands,” he said.
Governor Abubakar advised farmers within the affected areas to stay indoors during the period to avoid inhaling poisonous chemicals in the insecticides.
