The Federal Government of Nigeria stated that it plans to end the country’s reliance on fish imports by boosting domestic production.
During a consultative meeting with fisheries cooperative groups on Wednesday in Abuja, Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, emphasized the government’s vision to position aquaculture as a foundation for strengthening food security, job creation, and export growth.
“The Federal Government is fully committed to supporting the fisheries and aquaculture subsector through policy, technical support, and financial inclusion. We will scale up domestic fish production, reduce dependency on imports, and reposition the sector for sustainable growth,” Oyetola said.
Nigeria allocates nearly $1.2 billion annually for fish imports, which represent around 45% of the country’s total fish consumption. With an annual demand estimated at 3.6 million metric tons, domestic production meets only a third of the requirement, leaving a substantial gap that is filled through imports.
Oyetola noted that the efforts are in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes empowering young people and promoting economic diversification. He stressed that expanding youth participation in aquaculture is vital for boosting fish production and tackling unemployment. He further reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting both young people and women, noting that several empowerment initiatives are currently in progress.
Oyetola also disclosed that discussions were underway with the World Bank to obtain financial backing for fish farmers, and the ministry would collaborate with the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC) to offer accessible insurance solutions to the sector.
The minister assured stakeholders that the ministry is engaging with both domestic and international partners to tackle challenges in the industry. Additionally, he disclosed ongoing talks with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to replicate the successful aquaculture model implemented at the Oyan Dam across other regions of the country.
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