Ismail Hamza, Safiyanu Ali , Umar Jafar , Ma’amun Da’u Aliyu and Mansur Sani Ahmad

Keywords: Cowpea, Bruchids, Post-harvest loss, non-chemical methods

Abstract

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is one of the most important grain legumes grown by small-scale farmers in jigawa state, Nigeria. The crop served as food and animal fodder as well as income through sales. Despite the importance of the crop, stored cowpea suffers damage by insects. Bruchid (Callosobruchus maculatus) is the most serious post-harvest insect in stored and its infestation starts in the field as a result of improper management then becomes more prevalent in storage. Damage by Bruchids has been reported reducing the degree of usefulness and making the cowpea seeds unfit for human consumption that caused rejection of farmer’s cowpea in export market trade. These have become necessary for Jigawa Agricultural Research Institute (JRI) came into the issue. A study in the major rural cowpea markets across the state was conducted and the methodology involved surveys and interviews. The finding revealed the use of pesticides chemicals by farmers in dealing with bruchids is not advised, because it constitutes a high economic and health risk, emphasis on the safe storage of produce should be considered. The non-chemical method of cowpea storage is the most effective, eco-friendly, and durable approach to limit the losses associated with this pest. The main objectives of this review are to guide small-scale farmers on some selected non-chemical methods of bruchids control that are cost less and also to alert the state Government with information so that to come up with action.