FAO praises Oyetola’s efforts to boost Nigeria’s fish production
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization has recognized Marine and Blue Economy Minister Adegboyega Oyetola for advancing efforts to boost Nigerian fish production and promote sustainable growth in the sector. FAO Representative Hussein Gadain visited the minister’s Abuja office to commend the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, describing the framework as positioning Nigeria at the forefront of African marine resource development.
Gadain noted the UN agency contributed to the fisheries and aquaculture sections of the comprehensive policy document. The organization pledged continued technical assistance to strengthen fish value chains nationwide. Oyetola emphasized the ministry’s determination to expand domestic output, reduce import dependency, and create employment opportunities aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s economic priorities.
The minister identified fisheries and aquaculture as central pillars of the blue economy strategy due to their potential for enhancing nutrition security and supporting livelihoods. Oyetola stated Nigeria possesses sufficient capacity to meet domestic fish demand through increased local production and foreign exchange conservation.
