Occurrence of Leaf Spot Diseases on Maize (Zea mays) in Akwa Ibom State, South South Nigeria

Maize (Zea mays) is cultivated extensively in Akwa Ibom State as a staple and cash crop, but leaf spot diseases have emerged as a recurring constraint on production. This study documented the occurrence, identity, and severity of leaf spot diseases on maize across selected farming communities in three local government areas within the state. Field surveys were conducted during two cropping seasons in 2023, covering a total of 60 farms. Disease symptoms, including necrotic lesions, chlorotic halos, and characteristic banding patterns, were recorded and photographed. Laboratory examinations using standard isolation techniques confirmed the presence of Exserohilum turcicum, Cercospora zeae-maydis, and Helminthosporium maydis as the causative agents. Disease severity ratings averaged 3.2 on a 1-5 scale, with the highest scores recorded in fields with dense plant populations and waterlogged conditions. Farmer interviews revealed that susceptible local varieties were predominantly planted and that awareness of resistant cultivars remained low. Early plantings showed marginally lower disease pressure compared to delayed crops, suggesting temporal variation in pathogen activity linked to rainfall patterns. These findings highlight the need for improved extension campaigns promoting the use of disease-resistant maize varieties and cultural practices that limit the spread of leaf spot pathogens. The study provides relevant baseline information for further regional disease monitoring efforts. Keywords: maize, leaf spot, Exserohilum turcicum, Akwa Ibom, disease severity.