In a bid to empower farmers and enhance food security in the state, Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has introduced a “Thursday Fish Market” to further promote agriculture, empower fish farmers, and provide residents with access to affordable seafood.
This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen by the ministry’s Press Secretary, Omotola Ashaolu, on Wednesday.
The market will be held every Thursday at the ministry’s premises in Ilorin, the state capital and it offers a wide variety of fresh and processed fish, including catfish, tilapia and croaker, at competitive prices.
Speaking at the inaugural event, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Oloruntoyosi Thomas, highlighted the initiative’s dual purpose of ensuring food security and supporting local fish farmers.
“Fish breeders can also purchase fingerlings, juvenile catfish, fish feeds, and medications.
“Additionally, consultancy services will be available to assist new and experienced fish farmers in areas such as fish farming and processing, ensuring growth across the entire fish value chain,” Thomas said.
The ministry’s Director of Fisheries, Mrs Oluwatoyin Ajayi, described the market as a first of its kind in Nigeria.
“The uniqueness of our Thursday fish market centres around quality, affordability, and longevity in shelf life,” she said.
However, Customers and vendors have expressed enthusiasm about the initiative.
The statement read, “The Ministry of Agriculture assures the public of an all-season supply of fresh and smoked fish, contributing to the government’s commitment to improving food security and empowering local farmers.”
(Punch)
