The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ernest Umakhihe says Nigeria is facing a deficit of 2.5 million tons in fish production.
According to him, the total demand for fish in Nigeria is 3.6 million tons annually while the country is producing 1.1 million tons from all sources including Aquaculture, artisanal and industrial sectors leaving a deficit of about 2.5 million tons to be supplemented by importation.
Umakhihe who was speaking at the International Dialogue on the Transformation and Future of Aquatic Food System in Abuja was represented by the Head of Aquaculture and Deputy Director, Fisheries and Aquaculture Department in the Ministry, Istifanus Pwaspo.
The Permanent Secretary explained that fish accounts for about 50% of total animal protein consumed in Nigeria with per consumption of 17.5 kilograms per person every year. He noted that it is estimated that over 10 million Nigerians are actively engaged in primary and secondary fisheries operations.
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For the Country Director, Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, GAIN, Michael Ojo, Nigeria has seen significant growth in fish production over the past 18 years ‘’but still has a large supply deficit limiting access for consumers and potential contribution to the relatively high cost of aquatic foods”.
Ojo added that the factors that constrain the supply of safe and affordable fisheries products to meet consumer demand are multiple and reside at many different points in the supply chain, thereby need urgent check.
The contribution of fisheries to the National Gross Domestic Product, GDP, of Nigeria at the moment stands at 4.5%.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
