Professor Olufeagba Olabode, who holds a position in genetics engineering within the Department of Agriculture at Federal University Lokoja (FUL), has called for substantial federal government investment in the Blue Economy. According to him, this strategic investment is key to boosting Nigeria's fish production, which in turn will significantly improve food security and drive sustainable development.
Professor Olabode articulated these views during the 39th inaugural lecture of the university, held at its Adankolo Campus in Lokoja. The lecture was titled, “Fish Genetics and Sustainable Aquaculture: Pathways to Food Security and Blue Economy”.
The academic emphasized that investing in the Blue Economy will ensure the continued productivity of water bodies for future generations, fostering economic development while upholding environmental sustainability.
He defined the Blue Economy as the sustainable utilisation of ocean, sea, and coastal resources to support economic growth, improve livelihoods, and generate employment, all while preserving the health of marine and coastal ecosystems.
Professor Olabode highlighted Nigeria's potential, noting that the country possesses an estimated 12.5 million hectares of inland waters suitable for fish production, with approximately 7.5 million hectares being ideal for aquaculture.
He stated, “The total potential production estimate is 2.5 million tonnes annually, making it possible for Nigeria to achieve self-sufficiency in fish production if available resources are fully deployed and managed with a focus on sustainability.
“Fish genetics can advance sustainable fish production, supporting the development of fisheries and aquaculture systems that are better equipped to adapt to current and emerging challenges.
“The Blue Economy encompasses fisheries and aquaculture, ocean transport, oil exploration, tourism, coastal protection, and ecosystems.
“There is a significant link between fish breeding and the Blue Economy, as the ocean provides more fish for culture fisheries compared to those sourced from the wild.”
The professor further explained that through effective genetics and aquaculture practices, Nigeria could produce millions of tonnes of fish, generating substantial revenue for the nation.
He pointed out that while fish production is the fastest-growing livestock sector globally, it faces hurdles such as high feed costs, a lack of improved fish stocks, insufficient skilled manpower, and limited resources for genetic improvement programmes.
He added, “Given Nigeria’s extensive water resources and a growing pool of trained professionals, the nation is well-positioned to attain near self- sufficiency in fish production in the near future.
“The Blue Economy, which includes wealth derived from natural water bodies and aquaculture systems like ponds and recirculating systems, offers significant promise for national development.
“Genetic enhancement of fish for improved growth performance will substantially increase and sustain aquaculture production, thereby contributing to food security and the development of the Blue Economy”.
He concluded that “Fisheries and aquaculture can lead to the realization of the Blue Economy by transforming ocean and inland water resources into sustainable economic growth, job creation, and a source of food, ensuring food security and sustainable livelihoods.”
In his remarks, the outgoing Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, stated that inaugural lectures are not just personal academic achievements but also a testament to an institution's intellectual prowess.
He recalled that since the university's inception, only two inaugural lectures had been delivered before his tenure, a situation he found unacceptable. He expressed his commitment to changing this.
“Against this backdrop, I urged our Professors to embrace their responsibilities. I reminded them that the professorial rank carries obligations, including commitments to scholarship, mentorship, and the public dissemination of knowledge.
“By the grace of God, today marks the 39th Inaugural Lecture. This is not accidental but the result of deliberate policy, strong determination, and collective effort.
“I am proud to state, without reservation, that I am leaving this University in a better state than I found it. In this regard, I can confidently declare: I came, I saw, and I conquered.
“Today, Federal University Lokoja is recognised as an academically vibrant and intellectually active institution. This is a legacy I deeply cherish.”
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