The Federal Government has expressed readiness in making fishing and aquacultural sector play a central role in the development of Nigeria’s Blue Economy.
President Bola Tinubu made this known on Wednesday at the ongoing Fisheries Society of Nigeria’s (FISON) 39th Annual National Conference and General Meeting in Abuja.
Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola said that the recent transfer of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture from the Ministry of Agriculture to Marine and Blue Economy is an indication that the President is determined to make the sector play a key role in his vision for sustainable economic diversification.
He noted that the theme of this year’s conference, ” Unlocking The Investment Potential Of Nigeria’s Blue Economy: Advancing The Fisheries And Aquaculture Sector For Sustainable Development” aligns with Mr President’s goal of expanding the frontiers of the nation’s economic opportunities.
“The theme of this year’s conference is very significant as it aligns with Mr President’s vision for sustainable economic diversification, highlighted in the agenda and creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. This itself has been enforced in the recent transfer of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture to the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. This development is significant as it places all issues merited to fisheries administration and related activities under the direct supervision of the Ministry.
“The establishment of this ministry marks the beginning of a new era for the fisheries and aquaculture sub-sector. In alignment of Mr President’s vision for the sub-sector, the ministry is committed to achieving self sufficiency in fish production and position Nigeria as the major exporter of fish and fisheries products”
“The Ministry is also embarking on various initiatives tailored towards fisheries management, boosting investment of fisheries and aquacultural development, improving post-harvest infrastructure, promoting innovation, leveraging technology and fostering multi-stakeholders collaborations”.
The Minister in a statement by the Head Press and Public Relations ,Muhammad Zakari said he is focused on tapping into the full spectrum of the nation’s marine resources as the sub-sector holds great potentials to increase food production, create job opportunities, and enhance economic development for Nigerians.
“Fisheries and aquaculture is central to the broader vision to grow Nigeria’s Blue Economy sector. The Ministry’s strategic focus is to upscale fish production in a sustainable manner, tapping into the full spectrum of our marine resources. This sub-sector holds the potential to unlock long term resources, increase food production, bring job opportunities and drive sustainable development across our coastal and inland waters.This in turn, provides long term prosperity and security for future generations among other goals.”
Oh her part, the Head of Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack commended Fisheries Society of Nigeria (FISON), “for its commitment to excellent innovations and sustainable practices in a sector that holds the promises of both economic growth and food security for Nigeria”
Mrs Walson-Jack also performed the investiture ceremony on new Fellows and those deserving merit awards.
She noted that through the actions of the Society, Nigeria is recording progress in its vision of self-sufficiency, job creation, and environmental stewardship.
“Your commitment to sustainable fisheries aligns deeply with our national objectives, especially in the face of current environmental and economic challenges. By enhancing the productivity of our fisheries, promoting research, and building capacity, you are laying the groundwork for our future that balances the needs of today with the preservation of resources for the generations to come.
In her address, the National President, Fisheries Society of Nigeria, Dr. Ebini Joseph Ansa said the theme of the conference of this year, “aligns with the global trend in seeking ways of improving the economies of both coastal and inland states and represents a defining moment for our society and our country Nigeria. Our discussions, deliberations, and resolutions over the coming days will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s blue economy, particularly our fisheries and aquaculture sectors, which are integral to the United Nation’s sustainable development goals ” she stressed.
