Fishermen on Lagos island push for export growth
Fishermen from the Sonayon FADAMA Users Group held their first seafood event on Sakogboji Island in Lagos with backing from the Nigerian Export Promotion Council and two major banks. The gathering aimed to prepare fish sellers for international markets by improving preservation methods and expanding banking access.
Council official Bolanle Emmanuel told processors they must upgrade their standards to reach foreign buyers. She said proper drying, clean packaging and government certification remain necessary before products can leave Nigeria. Emmanuel added that registration with authorities and bank accounts helps traders formalize operations.
Banks at the festival offered immediate account setup and loans to participants. Representatives said fishermen could register businesses and receive financial guidance without visiting branches. Event organizer Hemmu Solomon Akojenu said pollution has forced catches farther offshore, raising costs for the century-old fishing community.
Akojenu requested government help in controlling waste disposal and subsidizing equipment. He said value-added processing facilities near coastal areas would benefit the industry.
