The Role of Entomologists in the Development of Sustainable Agriculture.

Abstract

A historical overview of pest control, starting with the pesticide treadmill in the early post-World War II years, with its attendant negative impact: pest resistance, pest resurgence, bio-magnification, secondary pest outbreaks, effects on non-target organisms, etc. is presented. The enormous costs to modem agriculture: loss in biodiversity, destruction of ecosystems. soil erosion, water pollution, etc. are outlined. The origin of sustainable development and related concepts (social sustainability, economic sustainability, environmental sustainability) are discussed. Sustainable agriculture is defined and the goals listed. The concept, definition, philosophy of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and constraints on its implementation are outlined. A historical account on agricultural extension services. within the triangular agricultural knowledge paradigm, is discussed. The disturbing trend in post-secondary agricultural education in Africa is highlighted. The address concludes with successes in entomological research in Nigeria and a clarion call for intensified efforts in specific areas (research, IPM, extension, education, etc.), if entomologists are to contribute significantly to the development of sustainable agriculture in Nigeria.