FUL Pledges to Boost Food Security, Blue Economy

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

In line with its determination to promote genetics and aquaculture sustainability in Nigeria, the Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State, has expressed readiness to ignite the massive production of fish to boost food security and blue economy for sustainable development.

A professor ofgenetics engineering, Olufeagba Olabode of the Department of Agriculture, FUL, made this known while speaking as guest lecturer during the 39th inaugural lecture of the institution at Adankolo Campus in Lokoja yesterday.

In his lecture titled ‘Fish Genetic and Sustainable Aquaculture: Pathways to Food Security and Blue Economy’, described the blue economy as the sustainable use of ocean, sea, and coastal resources to support economic growth, livelihood, and to create jobs while protecting the health of marine and coastal ecosystems without harming them.

He explained that through effective genetics and aquaculture practices, Nigeria can produce several million tons of fish to generate a lot of revenue for the country.

According to him, aquaponics can provide millionsof jobs and take youths, men, and woofft of the streets, stressing that.

Sustainable aquaculture is very important in realising the dream of a blue economy when exploitation of aquatic fisheries resourceis used s to enhance livelihood and economic growth, which will reduce poverty.

“Sustainable aquaculture will reduce pressure on exploitation and maintain fisheries at the maximum sustainable yield level, nd prevent over-exploitation. Direct and indirect jobs in hatcheries, feed production, among others, rs will reduce pressure on exploitation and enhance fisheries resources and conservation.

“Nigeria’s total annual fish production is currently estimated at 1.4 million metric tons, with about 760,000 tons from culture fisheries and approximately 310,000 tons from aquaculture, indicating that culture fisheries remain underdeveloped. Although aquaculture output is increasing, a significant proportion of fish consumed in Nigeria is still imported.

“Fish are highly valuable to humans as they contribute significantly to global food security. They are rich sources of protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Beyond nutrition, fish are used for recreation, beautification, and provide employment for millions of people worldwide.

“They also play an important role in controlling insects and maintaining aquatic ecosystems. Fish are major sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and overall well-being.

“Fish serve multiple purposes: they are consumed as food, used in medicine, processed into animal feed, and contribute to recreation and tourism industries.

“Fish oils are widely utilised in pharmaceutical production, while fish meal is used in feed manufacturing and certain industrial processes. Additionally, fish and fish by-products are employed in the production of cosmetics, industrial chemicals such as isinglass, glue, and adhesives. Fish are good sources of vitamins A and D. which help boost immunity and support eye health.

“Fish skin has been used in wound dressing and in the repair of human skin. Furthermore, some traditional practices have reported the use of fish in the treatment of illnesses such as infertility and epilepsy,” he stated.

The outgoing Vice Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwunmi, earlier in his address, pointed out that inaugural lectures occupy a unique and honoured place in the tradition of a university. They provide our professors the opportunity to share the fruits of years of teaching, research, and reflection.

According to him, “They allow the university to present its intellectual strength to the public. More importantly, they help bridge the gap between the classroom and the wider society by translating scholarship into insight that can inform policy, practice, and personal conviction.

“Through inaugural lectures, we celebrate academic excellence and reaffirm the role of the university as the conscience of society,” he posited.