By Stella Odueme
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, has lauded the commitment of the Fisheries Society of Nigeria (FISON) in promoting the spirit of excellence, innovation, and building capacity to advance the Nigerian Fishing Industry, stating that the sector holds the ace for economic growth and food security in the country.
Mrs Didi Walson-Jack disclosed this in a goodwill message delivered at the Opening Ceremony of the 39th Annual Conference of the Fisheries Society of Nigeria, FISON held in Abuja.
The conference’s theme was “Unlocking the Investment Potential of Nigeria’s Blue Economy: Advancing the Fisheries and Aquaculture Sectors for Sustainable Development.”
The HCSF acknowledged FISON’s outstanding contributions to advancing Nigeria’s Fisheries industry, adding that the sector’s commitment to sustainable fisheries aligns deeply with the present administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
She further observed that the significant role played by members of the Association in the industry attests to the fact that the sector is moving closer to its vision of self-sufficiency, job creation, and environmental stewardship through collaboration and resilience.
Mrs Walson-Jack also noted that advancing fisheries productivity, promoting research, and building capacity will help preserve resources for future generations.
She applauded the FISON fellows and awardees during their investiture at the conference for their milestone achievements and resilience in serving the nation in their various capacities, as well as in promoting research geared towards the productivity of fisheries in the country.
In his opening address, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, emphasized the strategic importance of the blue economy to Nigeria’s overall economic growth and sustainable development.
He highlighted that the fisheries and aquaculture sectors are pivotal to enhancing food security, creating jobs, and fostering economic diversification.
National President of FISON, Dr. Ansa Ebinimi, Ffs, in her welcome remarks, said the key priority of FISON is the urgent need for the formal establishment of the Fisheries Institute of Nigeria (FIN). She explained that professionalising the fisheries and aquaculture sector would not only enhance capacity but will ensure that it operates within globally accepted standards.
Dr Ansa further called on the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy to sponsor the FIN Bill as an Executive Bill and presented to the National Assembly.
The Keynote Speaker, Dr. Mohammed Seisay from the African Union—Inter African Bureau for Animal Resources, stated that Africa has inherent potential and opportunities locked in marine and freshwater ecosystems, including fisheries resources of high commercial interest that can support large-scale economic investments in fishing and processing industries, among other industries.
Dr. Mohammed Seisay added that the sector contributes immensely to food and nutrition security, livelihoods, and income and is a social safety net for most African countries.
