The Nigerian government has announced that it will stop importing fish in the near future. Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said the country is now working to boost local fish farming through major improvements in the fishing industry.
This announcement was made during a meeting in Abuja with fish farming groups. The minister’s media adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, shared the news in a statement.
Oyetola explained that fish farming will now be a key part of Nigeria’s plan to provide more food, create jobs, and grow its export business. According to him, the goal is to make Nigeria self-sufficient in fish production instead of relying on imports.
He added that the government will support fish farmers with good policies, technical help, and access to funding. This support will help the industry grow in a strong and sustainable way.
The Abuja meeting 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 spoke about the ministry’s efforts to help women and young people in fish farming. He said the government is giving out start-up grants and other forms of support to help them grow their businesses.
He added that getting more young people involved in aquaculture is not only good for food production but also helps reduce unemployment. He promised that both women and youth will be fully included in the government’s plans for the sector.
The Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola, also spoke at the event. He said the meeting was a way of keeping the ministry’s promise to engage with citizens and stakeholders, which was first made during a session in Lagos earlier in July.
He also assured the public that the ministry is ready to work closely with fish farming groups to make sure the benefits of growth reach everyone involved.
