The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola Tuesday in Abuja said that plans were underway by the federal government to establish a National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy.
The policy, Oyetola said, is expected to boost the country’s economy, create jobs, boost food security and curb illegal fishing in Nigerian waters.
Speaking in Abuja at the validation workshop on the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy of Nigeria, Oyetola described the country’s ocean as ‘rich’, with the potential to boost the economy and enhance food security if properly harnessed.
According to him, The ministry under my leadership is committed to implementing science-based fisheries management measures that would ensure the long-term health and productivity of the fish stocks in Nigerian waters.
“This position Nigeria as a key player in aquaculture production by advocating for the adoption of modern practices, improving access to financing and markets for aquaculture farmers, and fostering innovation in aquaculture research and development,” Oyetola added.
Highlighting the potential in the blue economy and marine sector, the minister said the nation is blessed with a coastline of 853km and 10,000km of inland waterways, is also rich in natural resources.
He noted the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to harness the resources of the ocean sustainably was in line with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu for sustainable socio-economic development and national prosperity.
Oyetola explained that in recent years, the fisheries and aquaculture sector has encountered numerous challenges, such as illegal fishing, overfishing, environmental degradation, and inadequate infrastructure and technological advancement.
He said: “To effectively tackle these issues and fully harness the potential of our aquatic resources, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, in collaboration with WorldFish and IFPRI, has developed a comprehensive National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy.
“The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy of Nigeria embodies a bold and ambitious vision for the future of our marine resources.
“This policy is designed to promote sustainable fisheries management, enhance productivity and profitability within the sector, and improve the livelihoods of fisherfolk and aquaculture farmers.
“By promoting sustainable fisheries management, boosting aquaculture productivity, and empowering our fisherfolk and aquaculture farmers, we can secure a brighter and more prosperous future for our fisheries and aquaculture industries.”
