Nano-Enabled Spray-Induced Gene Silencing: A Promising Strategy for Managing Emerging and Established Plant Diseases in Nigeria

Crop production in Nigeria is increasingly threatened by insect pests, nematodes, fungi, bacteria, and viruses, resulting in substantial yield losses and compromised food security. Conventional chemical pesticides and fungicides remain the primary control measures, however, their prolonged use has contributed to environmental pollution, health concerns, and the emergence of resistant pest and pathogen populations. This review aims to evaluate the potential of nano-enabled Spray-Induced Gene Silencing (SIGS) as a sustainable and precise strategy for managing emerging and established plant diseases and pests in Nigeria. Spray-Induced Gene Silencing employs exogenous double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to silence essential genes involved in pathogen virulence or pest survival. Recent advances in nanotechnology have significantly enhanced SIGS by incorporating nanocarriers, including lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and bioclay nanosheets, which protect dsRNA from degradation, improve plant surface penetration, enable controlled release, and increase target specificity. Evidence from global and African studies demonstrates that nano-enabled SIGS effectively suppresses economically important pests and pathogens while minimizing adverse effects on non-target organisms and reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides. Integration of this technology into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs offers a promising approach for environmentally sustainable crop protection. Nevertheless, challenges related to large-scale dsRNA production, regulatory frameworks, biosafety, cost-effectiveness, and farmer adoption remain. Future research should prioritize field validation under Nigerian agroecological conditions, optimization of nanocarrier systems, and policy development to facilitate commercialization. Overall, nano-enabled SIGS represents a promising biotechnology with significant potential to enhance sustainable crop protection, agricultural productivity, and long-term food security in Nigeria.