President's Column


The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has predicted that by 2018, farmed fish production will exceed wild fisheries production for human consumption, and that by 2021 more than half of the fish consumed globally will be produced by aquaculture. The aquaculture sector in Africa has tremendously increased with the potential to significantly contribute to food security, reduce unemployment rates and economic development in the continent.

 

In West Africa, the aquaculture sector has experienced remarkable growth and plays an important role in meeting the nutritional needs of the population. Nigeria is the largest producer of fisheries resources in West Africa and it’s currently the second highest producer of aquaculture products in Africa behind Egypt and the highest producers of African catfish in the world.

 

At exactly one hundred and twenty one days, the West Africa aquaculture industry will witness a first of its kind in-person conference that will feature hundreds of world class speakers and delegates around the globe on science, technology, aquaculture governance and the role of law in aquaculture development.

 

The conference is coming up at Abeokuta town, capital of Ogun State, southwestern Nigeria. It is situated on the east bank of the Ogun River, around a group of rocky outcroppings that rise above the surrounding wooded savanna. It lies on the main railway from Lagos, 48 miles (78 km) south, and on the older trunk road from Lagos to Ibadan; it also has road connections to Ilaro, Shagamu, Iseyin, and Cotonou (Benin republic)

 

2nd Regional Conference on Aquaculture in West Africa Nigeria 2022 is a place to learn success stories about the latest aquaculture, see the newest technology in the trade show, and have a great time to visit Olumo Rock, located in the ancient city of Abeokuta, Ogun State. Historically, the rock was a natural fortress for the Egbas during inter- tribal warfare in the 19th century.


Lanre Badmus, Regional Director