FUNAAB Lecturer, Prof. Akegbejo Highlights Sustainable Blue Economy as Solution to Nigeria’s Fish Import Dependence

Professor Yemi Akegbejo-Samsons, an expert in Aquaculture and Coastal Fisheries Management at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has called for a strategic approach to Nigeria’s aquatic resources as a key pathway to food security and economic growth.

Speaking at the 2nd COLERM Leadership Lecture Series on “Nigeria’s Blue Economy: Beyond Marine Transportation, Oil and Gas,” Prof. Akegbejo-Samsons urged policymakers and stakeholders to view the Blue Economy not merely as a domain for maritime transport and petroleum exploration, but as a holistic framework for sustainable development.

According to the aquaculture specialist, Nigeria’s vast aquatic resources, if effectively managed, could drastically reduce fish importation, create jobs, and promote inclusive economic growth. He stressed that the Blue Economy should integrate economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability, moving beyond political rhetoric to science-driven action.

While acknowledging the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023 as a positive step, Prof. Akegbejo-Samsons emphasized the need for clear policy direction, research-based decision-making, and long-term sustainability principles. He highlighted the role of universities in driving manpower development, technology innovation, and evidence-based policy, citing FUNAAB’s strengths in aquaculture, environmental management, agribusiness, and extension services as crucial to advancing the Blue Economy agenda.

He also pointed to the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment (CEADESE) as a pivotal platform for research, innovation, and policy engagement in Nigeria’s aquatic sector.

In his remarks, FUNAAB’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olusegun Idowu, reaffirmed the University’s dedication to translating academic research into practical national development solutions. He described the Leadership Lecture Series as a platform for aligning scholarship with national priorities, including economic diversification and sustainability.

The Dean of COLERM, Prof. Olusegun Oguntoke, in his Welcome Address, reiterated the College’s commitment to shaping discourse on resource governance, climate resilience, and sustainable development while acknowledging the foundational work of pioneering scholars in building the College’s academic standing.

The lecture drew an audience of distinguished academics and stakeholders, including former Vice-Chancellor of Landmark University, Prof. Adeniyi Olayanju, and former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Kola Adebayo.