Oyo State is poised to revolutionize its agricultural sector with a focus on fish farming, providing a lucrative opportunity for youth empowerment and economic growth.
The state government has launched an initiative in conjunction with Lukom Integrated Services to promote fish farming among young people, recognizing its potential to generate employment and stimulate local economic development.
Lukom Integrated Services is a multi-services company that offers various initiatives aimed at promoting agribusiness and food security across Nigeria. The major key services and initiatives include Eja Wá (Our Fish), public-private partnership with the Oyo State government focused on promoting the fishing industry in the state.
Fish farming offers a sustainable and profitable venture for youth, with a high demand for fish in the domestic market and export potential.
The firm, Lukom has set an extensive monthly training on fisheries development, providing training and technical support to young fish farmers, in conjunction with Micro, Small and Medium Entrepreneurs Forum in Oyo State.
The program has already attracted numerous youth, who are eager to tap into the opportunities offered by fish farming.
One of the beneficiaries, Regina Odediran, expressed excitement about the prospects of fish farming, stating, “I see a bright future in this industry, and I’m grateful for the support from the government and the company.”
Another beneficiary, a civil servant and content creator, Atiba Shola stated that he found the training worth the effort and time paid, “Fishes are one of the most important proteins of food and this training has given me opportunity for business expansion and investment”.
The initiative aligns with the state’s agricultural development strategy, aiming to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil revenue.
Fish farming also promotes food security, as Nigeria currently imports a significant portion of its fish consumption.
An Ambassador of Lukom Integrated Services, Amb Opeyemi Ayanrinde MC Swagger, Coordinator of MSMEs forum in Oyo State called on meaningful personalities to support the young ones around them for this monthly training as this shall solve unemployment and handle food security in the nation.
“The Oyo State government plans to establish fish processing facilities and market outlets to support the growth of the industry.
“As the program gains momentum, it is clear that fish farming is poised to become a significant contributor to Oyo State’s economy and a beacon of hope for its youth.
These are words of the training facilitator, Moyinoluwa Oladejo, representting the Lukom Integrated Services popularly known as Eja Wa (Our Fish).
