Chapter One

1. Introduction

As the concern for environmentally friendly insecticides to achieve pest control is increasingly

becoming a top priority, researchers and experts have been actively searching for safer and more

sustainable alternative approaches. One such approach involves the utilization of bio-active

materials derived from natural sources to effectively control and manage insects that pose

significant threats to both humans and livestock. Numerous studies have highlighted the potential

of various plants harboring bio-active principles that exhibit remarkable antimicrobial properties

against a diverse array of pathogens. In line with this, the evaluation of Moringa oleifera leaf

extract has been particularly intriguing, as this plant species is known to possess an extensive

array of minerals and vitamins. Notably, its indigenous nature to the vibrant Nigerian vegetation

further enhances its significance in the quest for innovative pest management solutions. By

harnessing the potent bio-active properties present within Moringa oleifera leaf extract,

researchers and scientists aspire to develop novel insecticides that are not only highly effective

but also environmentally sustainable. This natural alternative holds great promise in minimizing

the adverse impacts associated with conventional insecticides, which often impose significant

harm on non-target organisms and the overall ecosystem. Moreover, the utilization of Moringa

oleifera leaf extract aligns perfectly with the growing global trend towards organic and eco-

friendly practices. By capitalizing on nature's inherent wisdom, we can successfully reduce our

dependence on synthetic insecticides, thereby promoting a greener and healthier planet for future

generations. In conclusion, the exploration and evaluation of Moringa oleifera leaf extract as a

potential bio-active material for pest control present a significant opportunity to revolutionize

current insecticide strategies. Through this innovative approach, we can safeguard human and
livestock well-being while preserving the delicate balance of our precious environment. By

embracing nature's bountiful resources, we can pave the way for a more harmonious coexistence

between humans, insects, and the natural world. (de et al.2020)(Ogbonna et al.2021)(BORAEI)

(Ogbonna et al.2021)(de et al.2020)(BORAEI)

The use of insecticides is one of the methods to control household pests, particularly mosquitoes

and houseflies. Insecticides include natural or synthetic compounds that kill or interrupt the

normal function of an insect, and therefore are considered important tools in controlling and

managing insect pests as they provide a form of selective pressure for the reduction of insect

population densities to manageable levels. The use of insecticides leads to the reduction or loss

of insect populations and hence minimizes the number of insect-vectored diseases, as various

diseases are caused by insect pests. However, the activities of the synthetic insecticides

employed have a significant effect on non-target insects, vertebrates, and environmental

pollution. It is on record that most of the insecticides have been reported to be either

carcinogenic or pose some danger to humans, livestock, beneficial fauna, and flora.(Iqbal et al.,

2021)(Stejskal et al., 2021)(Khan et al.2020)

1.1. Background

The production of Moringa as a potential potent insecticide was discovered and suggested by

Clarke (2000) when his wife wanted some dried leaves of Moringa for culinary purposes. The

dried leaves were soaked with water and subsequently stored overnight. The following morning,

he noticed that the water had a somewhat oily residue and was amazed to observe the number of

dead ants floating on the residue. He immediately recognized the prospect and potential of the
oily Moringa leaf extract as an effective and safe insecticide against species of household insect

pests.

Most insects that are broadly referred to as houseflies and mosquitoes have been recognized as

household pests of worldwide importance. They not only make life uncomfortable but are also

known vectors of many diseases, spreading filth and germs wherever they land. They have been

responsible for many life-threatening diseases and are therefore recognized as keystone species.

The commonly associated disease agents with houseflies include shigellosis, salmonellosis,

typhoid fever, paratyphoid fever, gastroenteritis, anthrax, tuberculosis, conjunctivitis, leprosy,

and infantile diarrhea. However, different diseases were first reported by Kruze (1939), Warneck

(1948), and Kwitass (1950). It was reported that houseflies transmit a whopping 65 diseases,

while mosquitoes transmit 37 diseases. The higher number of diseases transmitted by houseflies

is of greater concern to public health in many developing countries, including Nigeria.(Dehghani

&Kassiri, 2020)(Stoffolano Jr, 2022)(Hamdan et al.2024)

1.2 Justification:

The evaluation of Moringa Oleifera leaf extract's insecticidal activity against houseflies and

mosquitoes in the 'Yan Mangwarora Bypass Area, Zamfara, Nigeria, is crucial for several

reasons. Firstly, this region faces significant challenges with insect-borne diseases like malaria

and various fly-borne illnesses, posing serious health risks to the community. Secondly, Moringa

Oleifera is readily available in Nigeria and is known for its diverse medicinal properties,

including insecticidal effects. However, despite its potential, its efficacy as an insecticide against

specific pests in this locality remains understudied. Therefore, this research aims to bridge this

gap by providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of Moringa Oleifera leaf extract as a
natural insecticide, offering a sustainable, eco-friendly solution to combat insect vectors in the

area.

1.3 Problem Statement:

The 'Yan Mangwarora Bypass Area in Zamfara, Nigeria, faces a persistent threat from insect-

borne diseases, necessitating effective control measures against houseflies and mosquitoes.

Despite the local abundance of Moringa Oleifera, its potential as an insecticide remains largely

unexplored in this context. This knowledge gap hampers efforts to develop sustainable, locally-

sourced solutions for insect control in the community. Therefore, this research seeks to address

the lack of empirical data regarding the insecticidal activity of Moringa Oleifera leaf extract

against houseflies and mosquitoes in the 'Yan Mangwarora Bypass Area. By evaluating its

efficacy, this study aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for utilizing Moringa

Oleifera as a natural insecticide, contributing to the development of effective and

environmentally friendly pest control strategies in the region.

1.4 Aim:

The aim of this research project is to evaluate the insecticidal activity of Moringa Oleifera leaf

extract against houseflies and mosquitoes in the 'Yan Mangwarora Bypass Area, Zamfara,

Nigeria.

1.5 Objectives:

1. To assess the efficacy of Moringa Oleifera leaf extract in controlling housefly populations in

the 'Yan Mangwarora Bypass Area through field experiments and observations.
2. To investigate the effectiveness of Moringa Oleifera leaf extract as a larvicide and adulticide

against mosquito populations in the study area using laboratory bioassays and field trials.

3. To examine the potential environmental and health impacts of using Moringa Oleifera leaf

extract as an insecticide, including its safety for non-target organisms and its acceptability among

local residents, through surveys and assessments.