ACUWA Champions Women's Empowerment Through Fish Processing Training

In a move to promote women's financial empowerment and equip them with practical skills for self-sustainability, the Ajayi Crowther University Women Association (ACUWA) on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, organised a training programme on fish processing aimed at helping women establish successful businesses in the fisheries sector.

The programme, held as part of the Association's Day (ACUWA 2026) celebration, was themed “From Pond to Plate: Building a Successful Fish Processing Business.” It featured discussions on the health benefits of fish consumption and practical demonstrations on fish processing and business opportunities in fish farming and smoking.

Addressing participants, the Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, said the programme was designed to strengthen the financial capacity of women by helping them identify and develop their talents into productive ventures.

She encouraged participants to pay attention to the lessons and apply the knowledge gained to improve their economic well-being.

Prof. Oduwole advised the women to start small and grow their businesses gradually, emphasising that their strength should be demonstrated through what they can deliver.

Sharing her personal experiences in various businesses, she also urged them to uphold the virtues expected of women while pursuing personal and professional development.

In her remarks, the President of ACUWA, Dr. Ekaete Umoh, welcomed participants and appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for approving the programme and for her commitment to the growth of the association.

Delivering a presentation on “Fish Consumption and Maternal Health,” the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Afolake Olabiwoninu, highlighted the nutritional benefits of fish, noting that it contains high-quality protein essential for building and repairing body tissues.

She explained that fish is a source of omega-3 fatty acids which support good health, while vitamin B contributes to the formation of blood cells and vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining healthy bones and supporting muscle function.

She encouraged participants to include different varieties of fish in their diets to achieve balanced nutrition, advising them to choose fish with lower mercury levels and purchase from hygienic sources.

The practical session, facilitated by Mr. Tosin Arogundade, CEO of Tosrule Multibiz Ventures, focused on appropriate methods of handling, cleaning, preparing and smoking fish. Participants were taken through the various stages of fish processing, with demonstrations on how to prepare fish for consumption and commercial purposes.

The session also explored income-generating opportunities in fish farming and fish smoking, equipping participants with practical knowledge of how to turn fish production and processing into viable business ventures.