The Nigerian fishing sector is facing significant challenges due to unreported, illegal, and unregulated industry practices.
In a startling revelation, experts estimate that Nigeria loses approximately $70 million each year due to antiquated fishing laws that fail to address the current realities of the fishing industry.
This significant financial loss not only impacts the nation’s economy but also threatens the livelihoods of countless fishermen and the sustainability of marine resources.
Nigeria, with its expansive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and rich marine biodiversity, is endowed with the potential to become a leading player in the global fishing industry.
However, the current legislative framework governing fishing practices has not been updated in decades, leaving fishermen vulnerable to outdated regulations that hinder growth and innovation.
According to a recent report by the Nigerian Fisheries Society, the existing laws primarily focus on traditional fishing methods, neglecting advancements in technology and sustainable practices that could enhance productivity and protect marine ecosystems.
The report highlights that the lack of modern regulations contributes to overfishing, illegal fishing activities, and a decline in fish populations, exacerbating the economic losses experienced by local communities.
Speaking further on the issue, Muhammad Laminu, National President of the Federation of Cooperative Fisheries and National Livestock (FCFNL), the root cause of these problems lies in outdated laws that have not been revised since the 1980s
Laminu emphasized the need for the government to revisit and update these laws to address current realities.
He also highlighted the issue of enforcement, citing underfunding of the Federal Department of Fisheries as a major obstacle.
Furthermore, corruption is exacerbating the problem, allowing individuals to exploit Nigeria’s fish resources without consequence.
To address these challenges, Laminu recommends comprehensive reform and increased funding for the sector.
He also stressed the importance of building capacity among stakeholders through training and capacity-building programs.
The consequences of inaction are severe, with Nigeria losing over $70 million annually due to unregulated fishing practices.
Moreover, the nation’s fish stock is being depleted, and foreign trawlers are encroaching on Nigerian waters.
To revitalize the fishing sector, Laminu advocates for:- Updated regulations: Revisiting and updating laws to address current realities; Increased funding; Providing sufficient funds for enforcement and capacity building; Capacity building; Training and capacity-building programs for stakeholders; Comprehensive reform; Undertaking comprehensive reform to tackle corruption and enforcement challenges amongst others.
