Nigeria Takes a Bite out of Fish Importation with Digital Licensing

Dayo Thomas

Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has given the green light to digitise the fish import licensing process, aiming to boost local production and bring transparency to the industry This move is expected to curb illegal fish importation, promote accountability, and give local fish farmers a leg up.

The digital system will provide real-time data monitoring, allowing the ministry to track import volumes, assess supply gaps, and make informed policy decisions. This means the government can better understand the country’s fish needs and create policies that support local farmers. “Nigeria has the potential to achieve self-sufficiency in fish production,” Oyetola emphasised, highlighting the opportunities for job creation and local economic growth.

The digitisation initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on economic diversification, food security, and job creation. By taking control of its fish importation process, Nigeria is taking a significant step towards securing its food future and boosting its economy