The Federal Government has unveiled plans to end Nigeria’s dependence on imported fish by expanding local production through strategic reforms in the aquaculture and fisheries sector.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed the plan during a meeting with fisheries cooperative groups in Abuja. The announcement was contained in a statement signed by Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister.

Oyetola emphasized the importance of youth involvement in aquaculture as a dual strategy to enhance food security and reduce unemployment.

“Increasing youth participation in aquaculture is not only vital for food production but also a strategic solution to reducing unemployment,” he said. “We are committed to ensuring that young people and women are not left behind in this transformation.”

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola, described the meeting as a follow-up to the Minister’s promises during the Ministry’s second-quarter citizens and stakeholders engagement held in Lagos on July 3.

He reaffirmed the Ministry’s readiness to forge sustainable partnerships with cooperative societies to drive inclusive economic growth within the sector.

The initiative is part of the Ministry’s broader agenda to strengthen the blue economy and support Nigeria’s transition toward self-sufficiency in fish production, amid rising concerns over food import bills and unemployment.