The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has advocated for better opportunities for the fishing industries, News About Nigeria reports.
He made this call while speaking at the stakeholders’ engagement with fishing trawlers held in Lagos on Tuesday.
He noted that the nation’s fishing industry can take over from the oil sector if properly harnessed.
The minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Oloruntola Olufemi, stated that the intent of the meeting is to collectively chart the course in achieving sustainable development in the Marine and Blue Economy.
He also stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu established the ministry and its Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture to facilitate trade, with their presence signifying growth, as well as progress in the fisheries sector.
“Fisheries and aquaculture is a key component of the Marine and Blue Economy which is the focus of the ministry action plan.
“This is an opportunity to chart the course and provide dialogue to bring innovative solutions and local capacities of Nigeria’s economy and the welfare of our people,” he stated.
He further noted that the meeting that was held is the first of its kind since the establishment of the department in the ministry, adding that he hopes to deepen the rapport between the government and the stakeholders in the fishing trawlers business.
He, therefore, urged owners of fishing trawlers in the country to collaborate with the ministry and fine tune their operation in line with the seminar sponsored by the African Union held recently in Abuja.
