By Abdullai Abiodun
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has announced a partnership with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) to develop a National Fish Production Acceleration Roadmap (NFPAR) aimed at reducing Nigeria's ₦2.2 million metric ton fish supply gap and expanding business opportunities for local producers.
Speaking during a two-day roundtable on accelerating national fish production held in Lagos, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said the roadmap is part of President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises food security, job creation, and inclusive economic growth.
Oyetola noted that Nigeria currently produces only about 38.9% of the 3.6 million metric tons of fish consumed annually, a shortfall that has created opportunities for entrepreneurs in aquaculture, fish feed production, logistics, and export.
"This gap represents both a challenge and an opportunity for our business community. Through the roadmap, we aim to boost local fish production, strengthen value chains, and reduce dependence on imports," Oyetola said.
Read also
He explained that the roadmap will be supported by new policy frameworks, including the Fisheries Bill and the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy, designed to encourage investment, sustainability, and innovation across the value chain.
The Minister also revealed ongoing digital reforms within the ministry, such as the automation of fisheries operations and the creation of a Blue Data Bank under the World Bank's PROBLUE Programme. He added that youth and women entrepreneurs are already benefiting from initiatives like the Green Money Project, which provides input support, training, and access to aquaculture financing.
Director-General of NIPSS, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, reaffirmed the institute's commitment to helping government translate research and dialogue into actionable policies that support small businesses and drive inclusive growth.
The two-day roundtable, attended by key stakeholders in fisheries, aquaculture, finance, and policy, is expected to produce recommendations that will inform future investments, boost SME participation in the blue economy, and position Nigeria for fish self-sufficiency.
No comments:
Post a Comment