Minister Seeks Increased Investment In Fisheries Sector In Africa

Minister of marine and blue economy and chairman of the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola has called for stronger regional co-operation and increased investment in the fisheries sector across West and Central Africa.
He made the call while speaking at the National Fisheries Investment Conference held from March 30 to 31, 2026 in Liberia.
Special adviser to the minister, Dr Bolaji Akinola said in a statement that the conference was declared open by Liberia’s president, Joseph Nyuma Boakai, and was attended by ministers responsible for fisheries and aquaculture from across the subregion.

Describing the gathering as timely, Oyetola said it provided an important platform to unlock opportunities in fisheries and the wider blue economy, noting that “This conference comes at a critical time for our region.”
According to him, millions of people across West and Central Africa depend on fisheries and aquaculture for their livelihoods, while fish remains one of the most affordable sources of protein. However, he warned that the sector continues to face serious challenges.

“Despite our rich marine and inland water resources, the sector continues to face significant challenges,” he said, citing declining fish stocks, weak infrastructure, and limited access to finance and modern technology.

Dr. Oyetola emphasised that addressing these challenges requires a clear focus on sustainability, investment and regional collaboration. He stressed that without proper management of marine and inland resources, long-term gains would be impossible.

“Our oceans, rivers, and coastal ecosystems must be carefully managed… without sustainability, long-term benefits cannot be achieved,” he stated.

In his role as chairman of the FCWC Ministerial Committee, Oyetola reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to strengthening joint efforts in fisheries governance.

He highlighted ongoing initiatives, including a regional record of fishing vessels, coordinated patrols and information-sharing systems aimed at improving enforcement and sustainability.

The minister further noted that the FCWC is working to harmonise fisheries policies among member states and promote trade within the region, with the goal of improving value chains and attracting investment.