Nigeria Joins AU-IBAR Fisheries Framework To Drive Sustainable Blue Economy Growth

Nigeria has joined seven other African Union member states in endorsing the operationalisation of the Sectoral Committee for Fisheries and Aquaculture Framework under the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR).

The endorsement took place during the 6th Ordinary Session of the Specialised Technical Committee (STC) on Agriculture, Rural Development, Water, and Environment, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from October 23 to 24, 2025.

The meeting brought together African Ministers of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Aquaculture to strengthen governance and promote sustainable fisheries management across the continent.

Representing Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, noted that the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is the lead agency responsible for fisheries and aquaculture policy implementation.

He emphasised that the Federal Government remains committed to sustainable resource management under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighting ongoing initiatives such as expanding commercial fishing, supporting small-scale fisheries through training and finance, improving cold-chain infrastructure, and reducing post-harvest losses.

Maiha also underscored Nigeria’s focus on aquaculture as a tool for youth and women empowerment, food security, and rural development.

The endorsement of the AU-IBAR framework marks a significant step toward harmonising continental efforts in fisheries governance and resource sustainability. Member states reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration, knowledge sharing, and policy alignment to harness Africa’s vast marine potential for economic growth and regional integration