August 12, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
The Ondo State Government is set to develop its marine economy in collaboration with WorldFish, an international organisation dedicated to transforming aquatic food systems.
The initiative aims to enhance food security, improve livelihoods in coastal communities, and drive economic growth through sustainable aquaculture.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Leye Akinola, disclosed this during a meeting with the Officer-in-Charge of WorldFish Nigeria and Country Coordinator of the Fish Innovation Lab, Dr. Sunil Siriwardena, and his team at the ministry’s headquarters in Akure.
Akinola said the state government is committed to harnessing the full potential of the agricultural value chain by partnering with both national and international organisations. He assured the visitors that the Ministry, through its Fisheries Department, would give maximum support to the Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) project already underway in Ugbo Nla, Ilaje Local Government area.
“The government is focused on diversifying our economy and improving food production, and this partnership aligns perfectly with our agenda,” the Commissioner stated.
Dr. Sunil Siriwardena explained that WorldFish, which began operations in Nigeria in 2019, is working in Ondo, Ogun, and Lagos States to develop pilot projects. After months of data collection and consultation, Ugbo Nla was chosen as the pilot for Ondo State.
He described IMTA as an eco-friendly aquaculture method where multiple aquatic species from different trophic levels are farmed together in a symbiotic system. The system not only reduces waste and enhances productivity but also promotes environmental sustainability, diversifies income, and mitigates risks for fish farmers.
“All necessary inputs—including cages, fish, feed, and technical expertise—will be provided by WorldFish. Once the project stabilises, it will be handed over to the trained and selected local beneficiaries,” Dr. Siriwardena added.
He also appealed for the state government’s continued support to scale up the initiative, allowing more beneficiaries to participate and increasing the economic benefits for the state’s coastal communities.
Welcoming the guests, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Foluke Tunde-Daramola, commended WorldFish for its innovation and commitment to transforming the fisheries sector. She reiterated the ministry’s willingness to ensure the success of the project across the state.
