The Federal Government has stepped up efforts to close Nigeria’s annual 3.6 million metric ton fish consumption gap, following an increase in local production to 1.4 million metric tons in 2025, up from 1.1 million metric tons.
Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, disclosed this in Abuja at the ministry’s Q4 2025 Citizens and Stakeholders’ Engagement, noting that the growth reflects targeted interventions to boost fisheries and aquaculture, cut imports and strengthen food security.
Despite the improvement, Oyetola said demand still far outstrips supply, stressing the need for sustained reforms, better coordination across the value chain, improved planning and wider adoption of appropriate technologies.
To accelerate production, the minister revealed that the government is engaging financial institutions to provide single-digit interest loans to fish farmers nationwide. The initiative is expected to expand access to affordable finance, empower artisanal and industrial operators, and raise productivity, while also supporting efforts to curb illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
Oyetola reaffirmed the government’s commitment to positioning the marine and blue economy as a key pillar of economic diversification, job creation and regional trade.
Also speaking, Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, said ongoing reforms are already improving the sector’s investment outlook, adding that policy consistency is driving measurable progress.
The event also marked the launch of the ministry’s digital service delivery platform, aimed at improving transparency, efficiency and engagement with investors and stakeholders.
