Epe, Lagos State – One hundred and fifty residents of Epe have received a significant boost to their fish farming ventures, courtesy of the Lagos State Government. The initiative, orchestrated by the Office of Rural Development and coordinated by the Centre for Rural Development, provided crucial training and resources to empower local fish farmers.
The initiative, which took place in the Igbodu area of Epe on Thursday, focused on equipping both young and old participants with the skills and materials necessary for success in modern fish farming. The training covered the entire fish farming process, from initial rearing to sales strategies, giving participants a comprehensive understanding of the industry.
Beyond the classroom instruction, the government’s support extended to tangible resources. Each of the 150 beneficiaries received essential equipment, including smoking kilns, fish feed, and tanks, enabling them to immediately put their new knowledge into practice and establish or expand their fish farming businesses.
Dr. Nurudeen Agbaje, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Rural Development, emphasized the governor’s commitment to the agricultural sector and the empowerment of local communities. He explained that the initiative went beyond mere skill acquisition.
Governor Sanwo-Olu has guaranteed that this initiative surpasses skill acquisition, Dr. Agbaje stated. Beneficiaries are being provided with adequate fish feed to sustain their farming activities up to the point of sales, Reducing extra financial obligations. This provision of fish feed, a crucial and often costly element of fish farming, removes a significant financial hurdle for the new entrepreneurs.
The participants were urged to embrace the opportunity with dedication by Kikelomo Bolarinwa, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. She emphasized that the government is not only training fish farmers but also equipping them with the necessary tools to thrive.
She stressed that while the government’s support was invaluable, the ultimate success of these ventures would depend on the hard work and perseverance of the individual farmers. “Long-term success in this sector requires persistence and a willingness to apply the knowledge gained,” she added.