Prevalence of Stored Grain Pests in Small-Scale Maize Storage Facilities in Kano State, North West Nigeria

Post-harvest losses attributable to insect pests remain a critical challenge for maize farmers in Nigeria's North West geopolitical zone. Kano State, a major commercial hub, supports extensive maize production and trade, yet smallholder storage systems are often rudimentary and highly vulnerable to pest incursions. This study examines the prevalence and species composition of stored grain insects in small-scale maize storage facilities across three districts of Kano State. A total of 90 storage structures will be sampled in Kano Municipal, Bichi, and Karaye LGAs. Insects will be extracted from grain samples using heat extraction and sieving methods, and identified to species level using standard keys. Farmers will be surveyed on storage duration, moisture management, and pest control practices. Grain damage assessments will be conducted using percentage weight loss estimation. The study hypothesizes that Sitophilus zeamais, Tribolium castaneum, and Prostephanus truncatus will be the dominant pest species encountered. Analysis will include comparison of infestation levels between traditional bags and improved hermetic storage systems. Findings will contribute to evidence-based advocacy for the adoption of hermetic storage technology promoted by development organizations active in Kano State. The research will also produce a pictorial identification guide for extension agents. Keywords: stored grain pests, maize storage, Kano State, post-harvest losses, hermetic storage