Fish farmers in Ogun State have appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the state governor, Dapo Abiodun, for urgent assistance following devastating floods that reportedly wiped out fish stocks worth over N700 million.
The farmers, operating across several communities in the state, said the disaster has left them grappling with heavy financial losses, disrupted livelihoods, and uncertainty about the future of their businesses.
Scale of the Damage
According to affected farmers, the flooding—triggered by heavy rainfall and rising water levels—submerged fish ponds, washed away stock, and damaged infrastructure such as feed storage facilities and access roads. Many described the losses as unprecedented, noting that years of investment were destroyed within days.
The victims explained that both small-scale and commercial fish farmers were affected, with some losing their entire harvest cycles. They warned that the impact could extend beyond individual businesses to the broader food supply chain.
Economic and Food Security Concerns
Aquaculture plays a significant role in food production and employment in Ogun State, and the farmers cautioned that the losses could lead to reduced fish supply and rising prices in the coming months.
They stressed that without immediate intervention, many operators may be forced out of business, leading to job losses and increased pressure on already strained household incomes.
Appeal for Government Support
The farmers called on Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Dapo Abiodun to provide emergency relief packages, including financial assistance, subsidised feed, and rehabilitation support to help them rebuild their farms.
They also urged the government to facilitate access to low-interest loans and grants, noting that many farmers lack the financial capacity to recover independently from such large-scale losses.
Need for Preventive Measures
Beyond immediate relief, stakeholders emphasized the importance of long-term solutions to mitigate future disasters. They called for improved drainage systems, better flood management infrastructure, and early warning mechanisms to protect agricultural investments.
Some farmers also advocated for training on climate-resilient aquaculture practices, including the construction of elevated or reinforced ponds that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Government Response Expected
While there has yet to be an official response, industry observers believe that swift intervention from both federal and state authorities will be crucial in restoring confidence among farmers and stabilizing the sector.
Agricultural experts have also highlighted the need for insurance schemes tailored to fish farming, which could help cushion the effects of natural disasters.
Looking Ahead
As the affected farmers await assistance, they remain hopeful that the government will act promptly to address their plight. They reiterated that timely intervention would not only help them recover but also safeguard food security and sustain livelihoods across Ogun State.
The situation underscores the growing vulnerability of agricultural sectors to climate-related risks, reinforcing calls for stronger resilience strategies nationwide.