Bill to Establish Federal College of Fisheries and Aquaculture Passes Third Reading

The House of Representatives has passed the third reading of a bill aimed at establishing a Federal College of Fisheries and Aquaculture in Oluponna, Osun State, marking a critical step before the legislation moves to the Senate for approval.

Sponsored by Hon. Mudashiru Lukman (L&K), who represents the Ayedire/Iwo/Ola-Oluwa Federal Constituency, the bill seeks to amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act of 2004 to formally create the Federal College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences in Oluponna, located in the Ayedire local government area.

Speaking during the presentation of the bill, Lukman highlighted the potential impact of the proposed institution on Nigeria’s fisheries sector. He said it would enhance food security, promote economic growth, and strengthen sustainable management of aquatic resources nationwide.

“The importance of establishing a Fisheries and Aquaculture Institute cannot be overstated, especially in a country like Nigeria, where the fishing industry plays a crucial role in food security, employment, and economic growth. With an increasing global demand for fish and seafood products, there is an urgency to enhance local capacity through education and research. Such an institute would not only serve to bolster academic knowledge but also facilitate the transfer of technology and best practices to practitioners in the field,” he stated.

Lukman urged the Senate to expedite consideration of the bill, emphasising that its passage would mark a major milestone in advancing the country’s agricultural and aquatic development agenda. He noted that the new institution would create opportunities for youth empowerment, improve national food security, and provide specialized education and research capacity in fisheries and aquaculture.

Concluding his presentation, the lawmaker appealed to the upper chamber to approve the bill swiftly, enabling the Federal College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences in Oluponna to begin contributing to Nigeria’s aquaculture sector without delay.