The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has outlined a strategic plan to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported fish by bolstering local production through sweeping reforms in the fisheries and aquaculture sector.
Oyetola shared the plan during a meeting with fisheries cooperative groups in Abuja, as revealed in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Dr. Bolaji Akinola.
He stressed that the government is determined to transform the sector into a key driver of food security, employment, and export growth.
“Nigeria must move decisively towards self-reliance in fish production,” Oyetola stated. “The Federal Government is strongly committed to backing the aquaculture and fisheries subsector with supportive policies, technical assistance, and access to finance.”
He further affirmed the government’s intention to ramp up domestic fish output, cut import dependence, and promote long-term sectoral growth.
The event brought together major stakeholders including the Fisheries Cooperative Federation of Nigeria (FCFN), Tilapia Aquaculture Developers Association of Nigeria (TADAN), Catfish Farmers Association of Nigeria (CAFAN), Women in Fish Farming and Aquaculture, and the Practicing Farmers Association of Nigeria.
Oyetola also underscored ongoing initiatives to empower women and youth in the industry, including start-up grants and various support schemes.
“Expanding youth involvement in aquaculture is not only essential for food production but also a practical strategy to tackle unemployment,” he added. “We are committed to ensuring that women and young people are actively included in this sector’s transformation.”
In his remarks, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola, noted that the meeting was in line with commitments made during the Ministry’s second-quarter citizens and stakeholders engagement held in Lagos on July 3.
He reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to forging sustainable partnerships with cooperative groups to drive inclusive and equitable sector growth.
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