As the World celebrate Fisheries activities globally on every 21st of November annually. An Ilorin base Fisheries Foundation, Aquabashy Fisheries Foundation mark the 2024 World Fisheries Day with the theme: FISH SPECIES DIVERSIFICATION: THE FUTURE OF NIGERIA AQUACULTURE.
Fish Species Diversification is needed to advocate and create public awareness about other fish species available in Nigeria Inland/Coastal water bodies. Fish Farmers in Nigeria only base on two most commonly fish cultured (Catfish and Tilapia).
The guest Lecturer Mr Daramola Isreal Ayorinde representative of Aquapet Venture in Ibadan emphasised on the importance of diversification in aquaculture practices in Nigeria to enhance food security and boost the aquaculture economy.
Mr Daramola Israel Ayorinde also noted that innovative approaches promise a sustainable future for Nigeria Aquaculture with the introduction of five newly exotic fish species (Common Carp, Pangasius, Rohu, Climbing Perch and Freshwater Brama) adapted to the local environment.
The Association of Fish Farmers in Kwara State (AFFAK) has been urged to unite in one voice to secure government recognition.
President of Association of Fish Farmers in Kwara Brig Gen S.T Olasupo (Rtd) made the call, highlighting the challenges facing the association, particularly the high price of fish feed from fish millers.
During the Stakeholders Panel Discussion Prof. Wasiu Adeyemi Jimoh of the Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries, University of Ilorin stated that development of recirculated water systems will reduced feed wastage and improve farmers profitability.
Prof Jimoh emphasized the importance of understanding the dangers and benefits of water, chemicals, and feeding practices in fish farming.
The Nigerian Stored Product and Research Institute (NSPRI) has also developed two machines to prevent post-harvest losses.
Mrs. Ige Itoha Mercy representating NSPRI disclosed that the machines would significantly reduce losses and improve food security.
Dr Prince Ayo Ajisefinni Tajudeen Vice President Agriculture, Kwara State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KWACCIMA) also explain the importance of Economic analysis of Catfish production.
Kwara State’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Olohuntoyosi Thomas, emphasized the significance of agriculture in the state’s development.
She commended the efforts of Agricpreneur Insights Online TV, which aims to promote agriculture in Kwara State and Nigeria.
Agricpreneur Insights Online TV CEO Alhaji Bashir AbdulRasaq Owolabi (Aquabashy) thanked the Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRasaq, for his support and partnership in promoting agriculture in the state.
