A Don, Professor Jimoh Wasiu says over 800 million people globally depend on fisheries and aquaculture for livelihoods.
Professor Wasiu who is the Head of Department, Fisheries and Aquaculture, University of Ilorin stated this today at World Fisheries Day organized by Association of Fish Farmers in Kwara in conjunction with Aquabash Fish Foundation in Ilorin.
He said fish accounts for 17% world animal protein, making it most affordable protein source as Kwara State strategically positioned for huge potentials for aquaculture expansion.
The Guest Speaker who dwelt on the theme “Catalyzing Sustainable Fisheries and Responsible Aquaculture Action for People Ocean, Climate and Possible Action for Responsible Fisheries”, said the Kwara State is blessed with abundant water bodies like Asa River, Agba Dam, Oyun River and numerous reservoirs.
The Don maintained that Nigeria consumes 3.6 million metric tonnes of fish annually but produces less than 1.2 million metric tonnes for sustainable progress.
Professor Wasiu identified low market bargaining power, poor water quality management, climate induced losses and fragmentation of farmer groups as problems affecting fish market.
The World Fisheries Day also featured interactive session featuring Kwara State University Malete, Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture and National Youth Service Corp, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control in Nigeria among others.
