The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has lauded Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for his dedicated efforts to boost fish production and drive sustainable development in the nation’s blue economy sector.
The commendation was made during a courtesy visit to the Minister’s office in Abuja by the FAO Representative to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Dr. Hussein Gadain.
Dr. Gadain praised the Ministry for formulating the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, describing it as a comprehensive blueprint for sustainable utilization of Nigeria’s marine resources.
“The policy positions Nigeria as a regional pacesetter in advancing marine and blue economy initiatives. We are particularly proud to have contributed to the fisheries and aquaculture chapter, which is critical for food security, job creation, and national economic development,” he stated.
The FAO representative reaffirmed the UN agency’s commitment to providing technical support and deepening collaboration with the Ministry to strengthen the fisheries sector.
He highlighted that boosting fish production in Nigeria is not only crucial for reducing import dependency but also essential for supporting livelihoods across coastal and inland communities.
Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy Sets Sights on Boost Fish Production
In response, Minister Oyetola expressed appreciation for FAO’s longstanding partnership with Nigeria and reiterated his determination to expand domestic fish production.
“We value FAO’s technical guidance and collaboration. Nigeria has the potential to meet its fish demand locally, and our mission is to close the production gaps that have historically led to import reliance.
By focusing on increasing local production, we can conserve foreign exchange, generate employment, and open opportunities for thousands of young Nigerians and investors under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” the Minister said.
Dr. Oyetola emphasised that fisheries and aquaculture are central to the Ministry’s strategic priorities.
“Fisheries and aquaculture are flagship drivers of the blue economy due to their capacity to enhance nutrition, promote enterprise development, and support sustainable livelihoods.
Our policies are designed to ensure that Nigeria evolves into a regional leader in sustainable fish production,” he added.
The Minister also highlighted the Ministry’s plans to engage private sector actors, local communities, and international partners to implement modern aquaculture techniques, improve supply chain efficiency, and expand market access for locally produced fish.
These interventions, he noted, are expected to significantly boost fish production and reduce the nation’s dependence on imported seafood.
Strategic Importance of Fisheries in Nigeria’s Economy
Fisheries and aquaculture remain pivotal to Nigeria’s economic growth, particularly in providing affordable protein sources and creating employment opportunities.
According to FAO estimates, Nigeria’s fish import bill runs into billions of dollars annually, a situation that the Ministry aims to reverse through local capacity building and modernized production techniques.
Dr. Gadain noted that the collaboration between FAO and Nigeria’s Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has already yielded tangible benefits, including the development of policies that promote sustainable fishing practices and the establishment of training programs for local fish farmers.
“By strengthening the fisheries value chain, Nigeria can significantly boost fish production, enhance food security, and contribute to the socio-economic development of its coastal and inland communities,” he said.
Looking Ahead: Sustainable Blue Economy Growth
Minister Oyetola reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to sustainable blue economy development.
He stated that with the right policies, robust partnerships, and innovative strategies, Nigeria has the potential to become a regional powerhouse in fisheries production.
“We are determined to ensure that our marine and blue economy sector contributes significantly to national development.
With targeted interventions in fisheries and aquaculture, we can meet domestic demand, stimulate entrepreneurship, and generate new avenues of wealth for Nigerians,” he concluded.
As Nigeria seeks to reduce its dependency on fish imports, the FAO’s support and the Ministry’s proactive policies provide a strong foundation for sustainable growth.
The concerted efforts to boost fish production are expected to not only enhance national food security but also strengthen the country’s position as a leader in Africa’s blue economy.
