UNILAG Professor Advocates for Protection of Fishermen from Niger Delta Militants

Professor Aderonke Lawal-Are of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) emphasizes the importance of protecting fishermen from attacks by pirates, militants, and agitators in the Niger Delta region to ensure food security in Nigeria.

Jun 12, 2024 - 11:46

UNILAG Professor Advocates for Protection of Fishermen from Niger Delta Militants

Professor Aderonke Lawal-Are, a Fisheries Biology expert at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, has urged the government to prioritize the protection of fishermen against attacks by pirates, militants, and agitators, particularly in the Niger Delta region. She emphasized that ensuring law and order enforcement is crucial for safeguarding food security in the country.

Lawal-Are made this plea during her 17th inaugural lecture titled, 'The Carcinologist Expedition: Decoding the Mysteries of Coastal Explorers,' where she highlighted the challenges faced by fish farmers in the Niger Delta area. According to her, ongoing security threats hinder fishing activities and pose significant risks to food production.

Speaking to journalists, Lawal-Are expressed concern about the increasing incidents of poaching and piracy, which not only threaten food security but also disrupt research efforts in marine studies. She recounted instances where poachers raided UNILAG's aquatic research facilities, depriving researchers of valuable data and resources.

The professor also raised alarm over environmental degradation and its adverse effects on marine life, emphasizing the need for sustainable waste management practices to protect aquatic ecosystems.

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Lawal-Are proposed collaborative efforts involving government agencies, research institutions, fishermen, and stakeholders to formulate policies addressing boat licensing, mesh size regulations, and crab trapping practices. She stressed the importance of raising awareness among students about the potential opportunities in Marine Studies, an area she described as underexplored.

As Nigeria strives to achieve food security and sustainable development, Lawal-Are's advocacy highlights the critical role of protecting fishermen and preserving marine resources for future generations.