The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, has inaugurated an advanced fish hatchery in Calabar, Cross River State. This facility, with an annual production capacity of over 20 million fish juveniles, aims to strengthen food security and create employment opportunities in the aquaculture sector.
Key Features of the Facility:
– Production Capacity: 20 million juveniles annually, with five million produced quarterly.
– Amenities: Fully functional laboratory, research center, and classrooms for aquaculture training.
– Collaborators: Funded by the Federal Government, IFAD, LIFE ND Project, USAID Feed the Future, and the Cross River State government.
Kyari emphasized the hatchery’s role in bolstering food security and fostering economic opportunities for youths and women.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu is committed to transforming Nigeria’s agri-food system using technology and innovation,” he stated.
Cross River Governor, Bassey Otu, represented by Agriculture Commissioner Johnson Ebokpo, highlighted the hatchery’s potential to lower production costs for fish farmers and enhance profits.
Economic Impact:
Dr. Ben Odoemena, Chief of Party for USAID Feed the Future, projected the hatchery could inject approximately ₦60 billion annually into the local economy if maintained effectively.
This initiative is set to revolutionize aquaculture in Cross River, making significant contributions to food security and economic growth.
