Oyetola Links Increase in Fish Production to Renewed Investment

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has attributed the recent surge in Nigeria’s fish production to a wave of strategic investments in aquaculture, capacity building, and financial support for small-scale fishermen. He said that these investments have strengthened the sector, moving the country closer to self-sufficiency in fish production and reducing reliance on imported fish.

Speaking during a roundtable discussion on national fish production in Lagos, Oyetola explained that the government has prioritised scaling up domestic fish supply by supporting fish farming clusters, improving artisanal fishing practices, and empowering key actors across the value chain. He noted that renewed participation from both public institutions and private investors is helping to address infrastructure and financial gaps that have historically constrained the industry.

Oyetola highlighted that the ministry has been providing start-up grants, technical support, and resources for youth and women in aquaculture, stressing that inclusive investment is key to boosting productivity. Empowering these groups, he said, not only increases output but also creates employment opportunities in communities that depend heavily on fishing.

He added that collaborations with international development partners are underway to secure additional funding and technical assistance for fish farmers. The ministry is also working with insurance institutions to provide affordable coverage for fish farmers, reducing operational risks and ensuring sustainability in the sector.

According to Oyetola, Nigeria’s fish output recently rose to about 1.4 million metric tonnes, which he linked directly to increased local capacity and more efficient practices in both aquaculture and marine fisheries. He pointed out that partnerships with financial institutions are being pursued to offer low-interest loans to fishing cooperatives, further encouraging investment and production.

Oyetola explained that the ministry is also collaborating with research institutes and policy development bodies to craft a national roadmap for fish production. This roadmap is intended to strengthen regulatory frameworks, mobilise investment, and implement data-driven interventions that can accelerate growth in aquaculture and ensure sustainable management of marine resources.

He emphasised the importance of formal policies, including a National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy and a Marine and Blue Economy Strategy, which he said will unlock investment opportunities, improve value addition, and align Nigeria’s seafood industry with international standards.

Oyetola also pointed to international partnerships as vital to achieving fish production targets. He noted ongoing collaboration with countries experienced in aquaculture, which aims to improve technical capacity, enhance value chain development, and expand export potential.

Addressing challenges in the sector, he acknowledged issues such as post-harvest losses, inadequate cold storage, poor infrastructure, and fragmented market access. He stressed that targeted investments are designed to address these gaps, ensuring that gains in production are preserved and efficiently delivered to consumers.

On reducing import dependence, Oyetola said that increasing local production is not only a cost-saving measure but also a national priority. He explained that as domestic production grows, Nigeria can redirect funds currently spent on fish imports toward scaling up sustainable aquaculture operations, improving food security, and creating additional economic opportunities.

He further noted that digitisation is playing a key role in modernising the fisheries sector. A centralised data management system has been introduced to track production, monitor progress, and support investment decisions, which is expected to improve accountability and efficiency.

 

Oyetola concluded that the surge in fish production is a direct result of deliberate government policies, strategic investments, and active private sector participation. He urged stakeholders to continue supporting the sector by investing in infrastructure, innovation, and market development to maintain the upward trajectory of aquaculture in Nigeria and reduce reliance on imports.