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By Steve Agbota, [email protected]
Nigeria, blessed with extensive maritime resources, has a coastline spanning 853 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean and an exclusive economic zone of over 200 nautical miles.
But despite these abundant resources, the country spends over $876 million annually on frozen fish imports.
Economic and shipping experts note that reviving Nigeria’s fishery terminals presents a strategic opportunity to harness these marine resources, significantly reduce import costs, and boost the GDP.
According to them, Nigeria’s maritime sector includes a rich array of marine environments such as mangrove swamps, coastal rivers, and estuaries. The sector also encompasses offshore waters teeming with diverse marine life. Notably, Nigeria’s marine ecosystem is home to over 200 species of economically valuable fish. Yet, the country has not fully capitalized on these resources, leading to a heavy reliance on imported fish to meet domestic demand.
In the 1960s, Nigeria’s fishery terminals were thriving hubs of activity, supporting numerous trawling companies and over 300 fishing boats. These terminals contributed significantly to both import and export revenues. However, over the years, these facilities have been abandoned due to a lack of political will, inadequate safety measures, and other systemic issues.
Reviving these fishery terminals is not just about rejuvenating an industry; it is about tapping into a sector that could transform Nigeria’s economy. At the recent annual conference of the Alumni Association of the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, experts emphasized the need for government policies, equipment, and grants to bolster the fishing industry and the broader blue economy.
Dr. Temisan Omatseye, former Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), underscored the importance of integrating fisheries within the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. He advocated for the establishment of modern fishery terminals, akin to those in countries like Gambia and Ghana, to stimulate the industry.
“Japan uses technology to pinpoint fish clusters, allowing trawlers to maximize their catch efficiently. Nigeria must adopt similar technologies to direct trawlers to productive areas, rather than aimlessly searching the ocean,” Omatseye explained.
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The integration of advanced technology is crucial for modernizing Nigeria’s fishing industry. Using technology to locate fish clusters, monitor environmental conditions, and manage fishing activities can significantly increase productivity. Additionally, ensuring the safety of fishing trawlers and their crews is paramount. Omatseye highlighted the need for constructing robust fishing trawlers that can operate effectively in the Atlantic Ocean and for protecting these vessels from piracy and other threats.
“Many stakeholders are aware that trawler owners often have to carry cash for bunkering because Nigeria does not provide adequate support. This makes them targets for attacks. We need to address these security challenges to protect our fishing industry,” Omatseye added.
Reviving fishery terminals has the potential to create a ripple effect across the economy. Mrs. Macfoy Rollen, Managing Director of OceanDeep Services Limited, noted that fishery exports have increased by 15% over the last three years. She emphasized that the sector, if properly supported, could rival the oil industry in terms of economic impact.
“Fishery not only provides food security but also facilitates trade, both domestically and internationally, contributing to foreign exchange earnings. It supports ancillary industries such as fish marketing, thereby creating additional economic opportunities,” Rollen explained.
To fully realize this potential, the government must provide funding, such as grants, and implement regulations that foster a conducive environment for the fishing industry to thrive. Investments in infrastructure, technology, and training are critical to transforming the sector.
Education and hands-on training are vital for sustaining the growth of Nigeria’s fishing industry. Omatseye stressed the importance of practical sea-time experience for students, complementing their academic knowledge. He advocated for more training vessels to provide real-world experience, ensuring a skilled workforce capable of driving the industry forward.
“In addition to simulations, practical experience at sea is crucial. We need to train many individuals and export skilled labor to build and develop Nigeria’s economy,” Omatseye said.
Reviving Nigeria’s fishery terminals is a strategic move that could reduce reliance on imported fish, generate significant revenue, and enhance the country’s GDP. By leveraging technology, ensuring safety, and investing in infrastructure and education, Nigeria can fully exploit its marine resources. This will not only transform the fishing industry but also contribute to the overall economic growth and development of the nation, creating a sustainable and profitable blue economy.
