Dr. Olukayode Olubiyi, a prominent fisheries expert, has cautioned that Nigeria’s fluctuating fish import policies are severely damaging the nation’s goals regarding job growth, food security, and foreign exchange preservation. By consistently prioritizing international fish products over domestic alternatives, the government is stifling the aquaculture industry.
As a Chief Lecturer at the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, Olubiyi notes that Nigeria possesses the internal capacity to satisfy local demand. However, the decision to permit the importation of tilapia, catfish, and pangasius creates an uneven playing field. Local farmers face significant hurdles because they cannot match the speed or pricing of massive import shipments that arrive in mere weeks.
The expert highlights that this policy instability creates a climate of uncertainty, which frightens away potential investors and limits sectoral growth. He argues that the government must shift its focus. Rather than allowing competition in sectors where domestic farmers thrive, the country should restrict imports solely to fish species that cannot survive in tropical climates, such as cod or salmon. Ultimately, Olubiyi warns that failing to address this inconsistency will continue to drive capital flight and deprive Nigerian citizens of essential employment opportunities.
