By Peter.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to addressing Nigeria’s annual fish consumption deficit of 3.6 million metric tons, highlighting a significant boost in domestic production from 1.1 million metric tons to 1.4 million metric tons in 2025.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced these gains during a stakeholders’ engagement forum in Abuja on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. He described the event as a “deliberate governance tool” to foster transparency, accountability, partnerships, and collective ownership of sectoral reforms.
Oyetola emphasized the marine and blue economy’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s diversification strategy, leveraging the country’s extensive coastline, inland waterways, and strategic location to drive growth in maritime trade, logistics, fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, and related services—creating jobs and promoting inclusive development.
Key achievements include targeted interventions in fisheries and aquaculture to curb import reliance and enhance food security. “While progress is notable, sustained efforts in technology, coordination, and planning are essential,” the minister noted.
Looking ahead, priorities involve consolidating reforms, strengthening institutions, expanding infrastructure, bolstering security, and attracting private investment through improved governance and risk reduction.
Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr. Pius Akutah Ukeyima, echoed the sentiment, stressing the forum’s importance for investment, innovation, and reducing oil dependency.
The event also marked the official launch of the ministry’s new digital platform, designed to improve efficiency, transparency, and service delivery across the sector.
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