Agriculture
AQUABASHY, an Ilorin-based foundation on aquaculture, has launched an agro-television station, Agricpreneur Insights Online Television (TV) to help fish farmers.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the launch was part of the activities organised to commemorate the 2024 World Fishery Day on Saturday in Ilorin.
The theme of the programme was entitled: “Fish Species Diversification: The Future of Nigeria Aquaculture”.
In his lecture at the event, the Guest Lecturer, Mr Daramola Ayorinde, a representative of Aquapet Venture, Ibadan, emphasised the importance of diversification in aquaculture practices in Nigeria.
He observed that diversification would enhance food security and boost the aquaculture economy.
According to him, fish species diversification is needed to advocate and create public awareness about other species available in Nigerian inland/coastal water bodies.
Ayorinde observed that fush farmers in Nigeria were only based on the culture of the two most common fish, Catfish and Tilapia.
He also noted that innovative approaches promised a sustainable future for Nigeria’s aquaculture with the introduction of five new exotic fish species.
The fishery expert listed the new species as Common Carp, Pangasius, Rohu, Climbing Perch and Freshwater Brama, all adapted to the local environment.
Also, Mr. Wasiu Jimoh, Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries, University of Ilorin, stated that the development of re-circulated water systems would reduce feed wastage and improve the farmers profitability.
Jimoh emphasised the importance of understanding the dangers and benefits of water, chemical and feeding practices in fish farming.
Similarly, Mrs. Olohuntoyosi Thomas, the Kwara Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasised the significance of agriculture in the state’s development.
She commended the efforts of Agricpreneur Insights Online TV, which she said, aimed to promote agriculture in Kwara State and Nigeria.
Earlier, Alhaji Bashir Owolabi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Agricpreneur Insights Online TV, commended Gov. Abdulrahman AbdulRasaq of Kwara for his support and partnership in promoting agriculture in the state. (NAN)
23rd November, 2024.C.E.
Tags:
