West Central Africa fisheries investment gains focus as Oyetola urges stronger cooperation and funding to boost sustainability and growth in the sector

Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called for stronger regional cooperation and increased investment in the fisheries sector across West and Central Africa, speaking at the National Fisheries Investment Conference held in Liberia from March 30 to 31, 2026.

Also read: Nigeria Leads Regional Fight Against Illegal Fishing

The conference, which was declared open by Liberia’s President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, brought together ministers responsible for fisheries and aquaculture from across the subregion, alongside stakeholders focused on advancing the blue economy.

Oyetola, who also serves as chairman of the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea, described the gathering as timely, noting that it presents a critical platform to unlock opportunities within fisheries and related industries.

He emphasised that millions of people across the region depend on fisheries and aquaculture for their livelihoods, while fish remains a vital and affordable source of protein.

Despite these benefits, the minister warned that the sector continues to face significant structural challenges, including declining fish stocks, weak infrastructure, and limited access to finance and modern technology.

He stressed that addressing these issues requires coordinated action among countries, as well as sustained investment in modern systems and capacity building.

Oyetola underscored the importance of sustainability in managing marine and inland water resources, warning that long-term benefits cannot be achieved without responsible stewardship of ecosystems.

He described oceans, rivers and coastal environments as essential assets that must be carefully protected to ensure continued productivity.

“Our oceans, rivers, and coastal ecosystems must be carefully managed… without sustainability, long-term benefits cannot be achieved,” he said, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to development and conservation.

In his capacity as chairman of the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea, Oyetola reaffirmed the commitment of the organisation to strengthening regional collaboration in fisheries governance.

He pointed to ongoing initiatives aimed at improving monitoring and enforcement across member states.

These initiatives include the development of a regional register of fishing vessels, coordinated patrol operations, and enhanced information-sharing systems designed to combat illegal fishing and promote sustainable practices.

According to the minister, such measures are essential to safeguarding marine resources and ensuring compliance with agreed standards.

Oyetola also noted that efforts are underway to harmonise fisheries policies across the region, with the aim of facilitating trade, strengthening value chains, and attracting investment into the sector.

He said improved coordination among countries would help create a more stable and attractive environment for both local and international investors.

Also read: Ondo Deep Sea Port Revalidated to Boost Nigeria’s Blue Economy

The conference is widely seen as part of broader efforts to position fisheries and aquaculture as key drivers of economic growth, food security and employment across West and Central Africa, particularly as governments seek to diversify their economies and harness blue economy opportunities.