Abuja, Aug. 15, 2025 – The World Bank has promised to sustain its support to Nigeria in boosting fish production.
A world Bank team relayed the gesture to Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy during a meeting in Abuja.
According to a statement issued by the ministry, Gladys Fajomu, the World Bank team leader, commended the minister for Nigeria’s bold steps in the marine and blue economy.
“We will continue to support Nigeria through technical assistance, capacity building, and financing options for strategic projects,” she assured.
The team, which included Yolanda Monteo and Felicia Mogo, also met with senior ministry officials to explore areas of collaboration in policy implementation, infrastructure development, and private sector engagement.
Responding, Oyetola promised to cut Nigeria’s dependence on fish imports by boosting local production through aquaculture development, improving artisanal fishing methods, and expanding fish farming clusters.
“We cannot continue to import what we have the capacity to produce locally.
“We are aggressively boosting local fish production by supporting aquaculture development, improving artisanal fishing methods, and expanding fish farming clusters across the country.
“This will not only save our foreign exchange, but will create thousands of jobs for our people, especially in coastal and riverine communities,” he said.
The minister also promised expand youth and women’s participation in the sector, stressing that inclusive growth is vital for success.
He said Nigeria was on the right path to unlocking the immense economic opportunities of its oceans, seas, rivers, and coastal resources with the recent approval of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy by the Federal Executive Council.
“This policy is historic, It is the first of its kind, and it provides a comprehensive framework for sustainable exploitation, conservation, and governance of our marine and coastal assets.
“It will drive wealth creation, generate jobs, enhance food security, and position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s emerging blue economy space.”
