Crop pest and diseases risks mapping using Geographic information System (GIS) and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) techniques

Pests and diseases are important factors contribution to destruction of biotic components and promoting land degradation. Assessing vulnerability of areas to them is problematic because multiple factors (such as soil, topography, weather, and land use/cover need to be modelled in an integrated manner. Studies are limited that combine Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to assess crop pest and disease despite the high potentials of the two techniques in carrying out such an evaluation. In this study, pests and diseases vulnerability are assessed through the combined use of the two techniques, using Gwagwalada area council, Nigeria, as area of focus. A six-phase AHP methodology ensured robust decision-making, culminating in a risk map depicting vulnerability levels, with land use and land cover identified as the most influential factors. The implications emphasized the necessity for tailored management strategies to safeguard agricultural productivity. Validation against NDVI supported the vulnerability map’s accuracy, highlighting areas of high vegetative cover prone to pest and disease occurrences. The study’s findings emphasized the critical role of agricultural land and vegetation cover, as well as soil moisture, temperature, and slope towards the vulnerability. The integrated approach facilitated comprehensive risk-assessment and decision-making, providing insights to enhance agricultural resilience and sustainability. Recommendations include implementing customized management plans, enhancing surveillance, educating farmers on integrated pest management, improving soil health, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, adopting modern technologies, and advocating for supportive policies. These measures could collectively strengthen agricultural resilience, ensuring food security and livelihood sustainability in Gwagwalada and similar regions.