President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has disclosed that Nigeria spends approximately $1 billion annually on fish imports, despite possessing abundant marine and aquaculture resources capable of supporting local production.

Dangote made the disclosure while highlighting the country’s untapped potential in the fisheries sector. He noted that domestic fish production rose from about 1.1 million metric tonnes in 2024 to 1.4 million metric tonnes in 2025, but remains insufficient to meet national demand.

According to him, Nigeria currently faces an annual fish supply deficit of about 3.6 million metric tonnes, making the country heavily dependent on imported fish to bridge the gap.

He described the situation as not only a food security challenge but also a significant economic opportunity, stressing that increased investment in fisheries and aquaculture could reduce import dependence, create jobs, strengthen food security, and conserve foreign exchange.

Dangote called for stronger collaboration among the government, private investors, research institutions, and coastal communities to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s fisheries industry and boost local fish production. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.