The Nigerian government says the country’s local fish production has increased from 1.1 million metric tons to 1.4 million metric tons in 2025.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola stated this at the 2025 4th Citizens and Stakeholder’s Engagement meeting in Abuja Nigeria’s capital with the theme “Positioning Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy for Investment, Innovation, and Expansion; The Pathway”
Dr. Oyetola said the increase is as a result of the partnership and synergy between agencies under the ministry to boost local fish production and reduce importation.
“In the area of fisheries and aquaculture, we are working deliberately and with unique agency to boost local fish production, reduce our dependence on imports, and strengthen food security”
He noted that though the 1.4 million increase is a far cry from the 3.6 million metric tons the country needs annually, the progress reflects improved coordination and development of appropriate technologies.
“I’m pleased to report that local fish production has increased from 1.1 million metric tons to 1.4 million metric tons so far this year. While this is still a far cry from the 3.6 million tons consumed annually, the progress reflects targeted interventions to strengthen local capacity, to improve coordination, development of appropriate technologies, and better sectorial planning”
The Minister stated that plans are in motion with relevant financial institutions to facilitate single digit loans for fish farmers across country.
“In addition, the ministry has commenced engagements with relevant financial institutions to facilitate single-digit interest loans for fish farmers across the country”
“This initiative is designed to expand assets to affordable finance, empower artisanal and industrial operators, boost productivity, and support our broader efforts to combat illegal, unreported, or regulated fishing in Nigerian waters”
Recounting the achievements of the Ministry, Dr Oyetola said in the area of maritime security, Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents in recent years reinforcing Nigeria’s corridors as one of the safest.
“In the area of maritime security, you’re all aware that we have maintained zero piracy incident in our territorial waters for more than three years, reinforcing our status as one of the safest maritime corridors in the Gulf of Guinea.”
He noted that these reforms ensure that the ministry is better equipped to respond to present demand and to face future challenges.
Pushing for Turn Around
The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Shippers Council Dr. Pius Akutah Ukeyima, says the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and its agency are working to ensure that the sector boost the country’s economy and end its dependence on oil.
“We know that this year is coming to an end. And on this note, we are renewing our struggles to push forward for a marine and blue economy sector that will turn around the fortunes of this country from the dependency on oil”
He said “Today, we are talking about positioning Nigerian marine and blue economy for investment, innovation and expansion, which is very critical to our advancement to the next level after we have passed our policy”
Dr. Ukeyima appreciated the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy for putting the right foot forward and pushing the agency to carry innovations that will turn around the sector.
Olusola Akintonde