NAN-H-12
Farmers
By Christian Ogbonna
Okpotuwari (Bayelsa), Jan. 24, 2017 (NAN) The Association of Fish Farmers and Aquaculture of Nigeria, Bayelsa on Tuesday called on the Federal and State Governments to support fish farmers to grow the industry.
Mr Christopher Ebiki, chairman of the association in Okpotuwari Community, Southern-Ijaw Local Government Area of the state, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
He decried the way the business had been neglected, adding that the growth of the sector would create more opportunities in terms of making more jobs available as well as making fish available for consumption.
Ebiki, however, pointed out that fish farming and aquaculture was a lucrative business, and urged the three tiers of government to give it full support.
“Farming, especially fishing is a good business; here in Bayelsa, we are still lagging behind in spite of the already conducive environment.
“Funding is the major challenge; I am appealing to the Federal Government to create a platform through the ministry of agriculture in ensuring that fish farming receives utmost development.
“This aspect of agriculture can go a long way in creating jobs for the youth, enrich them, as well as boost the nation’s economy.
“There is also another challenge, which is terrain, but we know how to tackle that; fish farming here is a business that even a job seeker can venture into than waiting for a white kola job.
“You can start the business with a low income, but gradually you will make a lot of gains.
“Well, Bayelsa has the natural conducive topographic environment for fish farming, but all we need for growth is support from government,” he said.
Commenting on the ongoing rice farmer’s project, Ebiki said it was a welcome development to Okptuwari Community and pledged the support of the association to ensure its success.
“One cannot separate fish from rice because they work hand in hand, so, we are ready to give our maximum support to the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria’s (RIFAN) project in our community,” he stated. (NAN)
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Edited by Ese E. Ekama