WorldFish plans Nigeria office to support aquaculture growth

NIGERIA – The Nigerian government and WorldFish have signed an agreement to establish a country office for the international research organisation, strengthening cooperation on aquaculture productivity and sustainable aquatic food production.

Signed in Abuja on 2 October 2026, the hosting agreement provides a framework for further collaboration on managing Nigeria’s aquatic resources and developing its aquaculture sector.

WorldFish has worked in Nigeria since 2019, supporting efforts to improve aquaculture productivity, including through higher-performing fish breeds such as Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT). 

The organisation’s planned office will deepen cooperation with government agencies, local partners, and fishing and farming communities.

Nigeria’s growing demand for fish presents an opportunity to expand domestic aquaculture production. The country spends an estimated US$1 billion annually on fish imports, according to WorldFish, as local supply struggles to meet demand.

At the signing ceremony, Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, said stronger aquaculture systems, higher productivity, and enterprise development would help meet demand while creating employment and income opportunities across the aquatic food value chain.

WorldFish Director General Essam Yassin Mohammed said Nigeria has significant untapped potential to develop its aquatic food systems and that the organisation will continue applying its research, technical knowledge, and innovations to support national priorities.

Focus on productivity and fish supply

A key area of cooperation is improving aquaculture systems and supporting the development of productive fish breeds. 

Genetic improvement can help farmers achieve better production performance, although results depend on factors including feed quality, water management, farm practices and access to suitable fingerlings.

Expanding domestic aquaculture could help Nigeria meet more of its fish demand locally while supporting businesses involved in fish farming, feed supply, hatcheries and processing.

WorldFish Country Representative for Nigeria Charles Iyangbe said the agreement would lay the groundwork for closer work with communities and local partners to develop the country’s blue economy.

The potential impact will depend on translating research and institutional cooperation into practical improvements in farm productivity, access to quality seed and feed, and sustainable production systems.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.