The National President, National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF, has called for sustainable fishing practices to protect Nigeria’s aquatic resources, boost food security and safeguard livelihoods in coastal communities.
The NAGAFF president made the call while delivering his opening remarks at the Nigeria Maritime Correspondents’ Organisation, MARCON, National Conference on Sustainable Fishing in Nigeria, held in Lagos.
Speaking on the theme, Ezisi who was represented by Godfrey Nwosu,NAGAFF’s General Secretary said fishing was not merely an industry but a source of food, employment and livelihood for millions of Nigerians.
He warned that depletion of Nigeria’s aquatic resources could undermine the ability of future generations to benefit from the country’s fisheries.
According to him, sustainable fishing requires balancing economic growth with responsible management of maritime resources.
He said: “Fishing is more than an industry; it is food on our tables, jobs for our people, and life for our coastal communities. But it must be sustainable.”
The NAGAFF president commended MARCON for convening stakeholders to deliberate on the future of Nigeria’s fishing industry, urging participants to develop practical solutions that would make sustainable fishing a pillar of national development.
He also called for greater recognition of the role of freight forwarders in the fisheries value chain, saying efficient logistics and transparent supply chains were essential to moving sustainably harvested fish to markets safely, affordably and in line with international standards.
He said freight forwarders should be regarded not only as facilitators of trade but also as partners in promoting food security and supporting coastal livelihoods.
“Their impact on the fishing industry deserves our attention and deliberate integration into policy and practice,” he added.
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