Minister: National fisheries policy’ll create jobs, boost economy

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, says the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy will create jobs and improve the livelihoods of aquaculture farmers and socioeconomic activities in coastal communities across Nigeria.

Oyetola said the policy will also promote sustainable fisheries practices and enhance productivity and profitability within the Marine and Blue Economy sector.

The minister made this known while speaking at the opening of a two-day Policy Validation Workshop in Abuja on Monday, November 11, 2024.

Oyetola said the policy embodies a bold and ambitious vision for the future of Nigeria’s marine resources.

“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,” Oyetola stated.

The former governor of Osun State said the policy will also address Nigeria’s growing aquaculture sector, advocating for increased strategic investment in technology, infrastructure, and capacity building.

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Oyetola noted that the policy document “emphasises enhancing the productivity and profitability of the aquaculture industry through strategic investments in technology, infrastructure, and capacity building.”

“Our goal is to 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,” the minister said.

Oyetola added that the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy remains steadfast in its commitment to implementing science-based fisheries management measures that ensure the long-term health and productivity of the fish stocks in Nigerian waters, as well as ensuring best practices in aquaculture operations.

Aside from promoting sustainable fishing practices, Oyetola emphasised that the policy will ensure best practices in aquaculture operations, including measures such as enforcing catch limits, promoting seasonal fishing, and protecting vital habitats.

He also reiterated the ministry’s commitment to tackling illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, implementing science-based fisheries management measures that ensure the long-term health and productivity of the fish stocks in Nigerian waters, as well as ensuring best practices in aquaculture operations.

The Star