During the first annual conference and third annual general meeting of the Alumni Association of the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology in Lagos, maritime stakeholders highlighted Nigeria’s untapped potential in the fishing industry and its implications for economic growth.
Under the theme “Unlocking the Potential of the Blue Economy: FCFMT Alumni Contributions to Sustainable Fisheries and Marine Technology Development in Nigeria,” stakeholders expressed concerns over the country’s failure to fully exploit its fishery sector, attributing it to missed economic opportunities.
William Ogunshakin, President of the Alumni Association, underscored the pivotal role of the blue economy in Nigeria’s economic landscape, emphasizing its significance for food security and environmental sustainability. He called for collaborative efforts to promote sustainable fisheries and marine technology development, ensuring equitable distribution of benefits among stakeholders.
Macfoy Rollen, CEO of Ocean Deep Maritime Services Limited, advocated for government support to revitalize the fishery industry, projecting it as a potential catalyst for economic growth and youth employment. She highlighted the sector’s role in reducing imports and contributing to GDP growth, noting a recent 15% increase in fishery exports globally.
Rollen emphasized the importance of technological advancements in enhancing sustainability and efficiency within the maritime sector. She urged for government funding, regulatory support, and adoption of advanced technology solutions to streamline operations and facilitate international trade.
The stakeholders collectively stressed that investing in Nigeria’s fisheries not only supports local industries like fish processing and marketing but also aligns with global efforts towards sustainable development and economic diversification.
