President of the Lagos State Catfish and Allied Association of Nigeria (LASCAFAN), Mr. Sejiro Oke-Tojinu, has urged the Nigerian government to allocate funds to research institutions nationwide for the development of novel fish species. Oke-Tojinu emphasized that the country is lacking in efforts to innovate and create new indigenous fish species, attributing the shortfall to inadequate funding for research institutions.
Expressing concerns about the underutilization of aquaculture potential, Oke-Tojinu stressed the importance of supporting research initiatives and establishing aquaculture development centres across the country. He highlighted the need for developing indigenous species to ensure sustainable growth in the sector.
According to the LASCAFAN President, Nigeria has yet to fully tap into the opportunities offered by aquaculture. He noted the significance of the agricultural sector and its vast resources, particularly in the fishery sector. Oke-Tojinu pointed out that the country is witnessing a decline in fish catches, emphasizing the urgency for increased attention from the government.
Calling for greater financial support, policy development, and technological advancements, Oke-Tojinu underscored the potential for aquaculture to contribute to exports. He emphasized the positive impact on the nationโs protein intake and public health, advocating for improved attention to the sector.
Commending the establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy by the Federal Government, Oke-Tojinu acknowledged the potential for significant positive effects. He praised the government for heeding their call for a dedicated ministry to oversee the sector, noting the importance of the new ministry alongside the existing Ministries of Agriculture and Food Security.