By Demola Akinyemi
ILORIN: A Professor of Agriculture and Fisheries at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Wasiu Adeyemi Jimoh, has urged the Federal Government to make sustainable aquaculture a strategic component of Nigeria’s food security, nutrition and economic development agenda.

Jimoh said increased investment in aquaculture could accelerate the development of a resilient, environmentally sustainable and globally competitive industry capable of creating jobs, reducing dependence on fish imports and contributing significantly to national economic growth.

He made the call while delivering the 306th inaugural lecture of the University of Ilorin, titled, “Green Feeds, Healthy Fish: Enhancing Aquaculture Productivity,” at the university auditorium on Monday.

The don said the sector could be strengthened through increased investment in research, innovation, human capacity development and the commercialisation of locally developed technologies.

According to him, “Investment in aquaculture will accelerate the transition towards a resilient, environmentally sustainable, and globally competitive industry, capable of creating employment, reducing import dependence, and contributing significantly to national economic development.”

He added that strategic implementation of the proposed measures would transform aquaculture into a resilient, environmentally restorative and economically viable sector.

Jimoh said the development of the sector was essential to achieving food and nutrition security, creating sustainable employment and improving livelihoods for present and future generations.

He explained that his research had focused on developing alternatives to conventional fish feed ingredients through the use of plant-based protein sources, phytogenic additives and circular-economy principles.

“These efforts aimed to reduce dependence on fishmeal and soybean meal, optimise nutrient utilisation, enhance fish health, and improve economic sustainability for fish farmers,” he said.

The professor noted that fish remained one of the most nutrient-dense and accessible sources of protein, providing high-quality amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.

He said fish was particularly important in developing countries where malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies remained challenges, adding that it served as both a source of nutrition and livelihood for millions of people.

Jimoh also called on feed manufacturers, veterinary professionals, fish health specialists and regulatory agencies to formulate, certify and promote functional aquafeeds for fish farmers.

He advocated the routine use of aquafeeds containing probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics and natural immunostimulants, saying they could strengthen disease prevention, reduce antibiotic misuse and improve fish welfare and productivity.

“Fish occupy a unique and irreplaceable position in the global landscape, influencing dietary patterns, shaping economic activities, and fostering traditions that are deeply rooted in historical and ecological contexts.

“Fish are not merely food sources but a lifeline that sustains billions of people worldwide. From the bustling fish markets of Asia to the artisanal fisheries of Africa, fish form the bedrock of diets, livelihoods, and communities,” he said.