By Comfort Asemota
Nigeria’s local fish production has surged to 1.4 million metric tonnes in 2025, up from 1.1 million tonnes last year, reflecting strong momentum in the Federal Government’s push to strengthen the blue economy, reduce imports, and enhance food security.
The growth was highlighted by Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, during the ministry’s 4th Quarter 2025 Citizens/Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting in Abuja. He said the increase is the result of deliberate policy actions, targeted interventions, and improved coordination across fisheries and aquaculture agencies.
“In fisheries and aquaculture, we are working deliberately to boost local production, reduce dependence on imports, and strengthen food security. I am pleased to report that local fish production has risen from 1.1 million to 1.4 million metric tonnes so far this year,” Oyetola said.
The minister noted that while production remains below Nigeria’s estimated annual fish consumption of 3.6 million tonnes, the increase demonstrates a clear trajectory toward self-sufficiency.
To accelerate growth, the ministry has begun discussions with financial institutions to provide single-digit interest loans to fish farmers nationwide, aiming to empower both artisanal and industrial operators, boost productivity, and curb illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
Oyetola emphasized that the blue economy and fisheries sector are key drivers for job creation, economic growth, and food security under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking at the same event, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Pius Akutah, noted that the engagement underlines the government’s commitment to attracting private sector investment and Public-Private Partnerships in the marine and blue economy, further diversifying Nigeria’s economy beyond oil revenues.
