FUNAAB VC Calls for Stronger Partnerships to Build Sustainable Fisheries Sector in Nigeria

The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, has called for stronger partnerships among academia, industry, government and policymakers to develop a sustainable fisheries sector that promotes food security, creates jobs and drives economic growth in Nigeria and other emerging economies.

“Together, we can build a sustainable fisheries sector that provides food, creates jobs, protects our environment, and improves the standard of living of our people,” Prof. Kehinde declared while welcoming delegates to the 41st Annual Conference and General Meeting of the Fisheries Society of Nigeria (FISON).

The conference was held on October 26, 2026, at the Prof. Oluwafemi Balogun Ceremonial Building, FUNAAB.

Describing the conference as a strategic platform for addressing challenges in fisheries and aquaculture, the Vice-Chancellor expressed optimism that the deliberations would produce practical solutions, strengthen professional networks and foster lasting collaborations.

He also highlighted FUNAAB’s recognition by Times Higher Education as the seventh-best university of agriculture globally and the best in Africa and Nigeria. He attributed the achievement to the university’s commitment to academic excellence, impactful research and community engagement.

Prof. Kehinde noted that FUNAAB’s modern laboratories, well-equipped library and collaborative research environment support innovation, interdisciplinary research and international partnerships.

He emphasised the importance of fisheries to nutrition, employment generation, entrepreneurship and economic growth, adding that responsible fishing practices and modern aquaculture could increase fish production, reduce hunger and improve access to nutritious food.

Urging Nigerian youths to explore opportunities in fish farming, fish-feed production, hatchery management, fish processing and distribution, the Vice-Chancellor described these ventures as viable pathways to entrepreneurship and self-employment.

However, he identified overfishing, water pollution, inadequate funding, rising production costs, insufficient preservation facilities, climate change and the destruction of aquatic habitats as major challenges confronting the sector.

To address these challenges, he advocated stricter enforcement of fishing regulations, environmentally responsible aquaculture practices, affordable financing, technical training and improved access to modern equipment.

He also called for increased investment in cold storage, fish processing and transportation infrastructure to reduce spoilage and post-harvest losses. Furthermore, he urged Nigerians to protect aquatic ecosystems from industrial waste, oil spills, plastics and other pollutants.

Reaffirming FUNAAB’s commitment to environmental sustainability and agricultural development, Prof. Kehinde highlighted the university’s partnerships with professional bodies, including FISON, in advancing fisheries education, research and international knowledge exchange.

In his remarks, the President of FISON, Dr. Ebinimi Ansa, represented by the Vice-President, Finance and Linkages, Dr. Olalekan Oguntade, urged participants to maximise the conference by acquiring new knowledge, strengthening professional relationships and contributing meaningfully to discussions on the future of fisheries and aquaculture.

Reflecting on the society’s 50-year journey, Dr. Ansa encouraged members to celebrate the vision of its founding fathers and recognise the contributions of past and present members.

He described the golden jubilee as an opportunity to assess FISON’s achievements and renew its commitment to sustainable fisheries development in Nigeria.

The FISON President also commended Prof. Kehinde and the university management for their support and partnership in hosting the conference. He further acknowledged the contributions of founding members, professionals and other stakeholders to the society’s growth.

The conference continues on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, with further deliberations expected to strengthen professional collaboration and promote sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development.

The conference aligns with the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):