The Chairman of the House Committee on Oceans and Fisheries, Hon. Engr. Akarachi Etinosa Amadi, held a high-level strategic meeting with Prof. Sule Abiodun, the Executive Director of the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR), to discuss key collaborative initiatives aimed at enhancing marine research, aquaculture development, and the integration of inland communities in the national blue economy strategy.
The meeting, which took place at the National Assembly Complex, focused on aligning legislative support with research-driven programs that promote sustainable fisheries, food security, and youth empowerment — particularly in non-coastal areas like Mbaitoli and Ikeduru Federal Constituency, represented by Hon. Amadi.
In his remarks, Hon. Amadi emphasized that “even though communities like mine do not sit directly on the oceanfront, we cannot be excluded from the benefits of ocean-based development. Inland aquaculture, modern fish farming techniques, and access to marine-based innovations can transform livelihoods and boost local economies.”
Prof. Abiodun commended the Chairman’s proactive approach and reiterated NIOMR’s readiness to support inland constituencies through capacity building, research dissemination, and partnerships that align with the federal government’s broader blue economy goals.
The two parties also explored avenues for technical support, aquaculture cluster development, youth training, and possible field station interventions in underserved areas.
This meeting forms part of Hon. Amadi’s ongoing legislative efforts to expand the impact of the blue economy beyond coastal borders, ensuring that rural and inland communities are included in Nigeria’s vision for a sustainable and prosperous ocean-driven future.
