The governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, has revealed that his government has committed more than N2.2 billion to promote aquaculture growth throughout the region. This initiative has supported over 3,400 fish farmers via subsidized resources and collaborative efforts.
On Wednesday, during the launch of the fishing harvesting effort in Ijako-Ota within the Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area, the governor stated that this program forms an integral part of current initiatives aimed at enhancing food security, generating employment opportunities, and promoting sustainable living for those engaged in agriculture.
The governor mentioned, “In aquaculture alone, we’ve assisted over 3,400 fish farmers throughout the state.” He added, “Every farmer was provided with 72 bags of premium feed, for which the government covered thirty percent of the expense. Altogether, more than 179,000 bags were handed out, amounting to an approximate investment of N2.2 billion.”
Representing Abiodun was his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who stated that this program intends to decrease reliance on imported fish and transform Ogoni State into a center for inland aquaculture within Nigeria.
“This harvest is not just about fish; it is a celebration of the growth and resilience of our aquaculture value chain,” he added.
The governor likewise praised the World Bank and the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project team for their ongoing partnership, noting that this collaboration has enhanced the state’s ability to assist farmers and agribusinesses.
Abiodun reiterated his government’s commitment to transforming agriculture into a profitable business venture by enhancing farmers’ access to financing, resources, technological advancements, and better infrastructure.
He also instructed the state’s Ministry of Agriculture to speed up the establishment of a planned fish processing zone in the region. This move aims to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance the value within the local sector.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Bolu Owotomo, highlighted that Ogun State yields approximately 40,000 tons of fish each year, which falls significantly short of the state’s requirement of more than 100,000 tons. He also stressed the importance of continuous financial support.
He mentioned that the government had invested at least NGN 5.4 billion in agricultural projects across different support programs within the state.
Additionally, Commissioner for Finance, Dapo Okubadejo, who was represented by the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, commended the fish farming project as a significant means of generating employment and acting as an economic stimulant for nearby neighborhoods.
The Olota of Ota, King Professor Abdulkabir Obalanlege, represented by King Doctor Odutola Adewunmi, praised the government’s fresh emphasis on agriculture, stating that it represents the most reliable route to achieving food self-sufficiency and boosting rural areas.
The Cluster Chairman, Mr. Ebenezer Jinadu, conveyed profound gratitude to both the government and the World Bank, noting that numerous fish farmers who had ceased their activities earlier have now resumed operations due to this assistance.
Nevertheless, he urged the state administration to restore the local roadways to facilitate smoother transport and logistics for both farmers and purchasers.
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