FISH4ACP Project Boosts Catfish Value Chain in Nigeria, Enhancing Productivity and Competitiveness

Strategic Insights -

The FISH4ACP project, implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, is supporting the development of the catfish value chain in Nigeria, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and improved food security and nutrition. The project provides training and technical assistance to fish farmers, enabling them to maximize profit and reduce losses. A notable impact of the project is the increase in farmers' profit margin from less than 10% to 26-28% after receiving capacity building training.

Key Takeaways:

  • The FISH4ACP project has trained 40 farmers, providing them with necessary tools and training to maximize profit, with a notable improvement in their profit margin from less than 10% to 26-28%.
  • The project has provided access to 162 million Naira (approximately USD 105,000) to 40 farmers, with more expected to benefit from the 9% single-digit loan.
  • The project has introduced new ideas and innovations to farmers, such as best feeding ratio for fish, minimizing feed wastage, and reducing water pumping costs by using gas-powered pumps.
  • Farmers have gained knowledge on record keeping and data-driven decision-making, allowing them to boost productivity and profitability.
  • The project has equipped farmers with essential financial literacy skills, enabling them to better manage resources, plan strategically, and engage confidently with financial service providers.
  • So far, 40 farmers have successfully accessed approximately 165 million Naira (approximately USD 105,000) from reputable institutions, such as the Bank of Industry (BOI) and First City Monument Bank (FCMB).

Statistics:

  • 40 farmers have received 162 million Naira (approximately USD 105,000) as a pilot project.
  • The profit margin of farmers increased from less than 10% to 26-28% after receiving training.
  • The projected value of the catfish production is 10,000 tons per annum, worth approximately 4 billion Naira.
  • The FISH4ACP project has provided access to approximately 165 million Naira (approximately USD 105,000) to farmers.
  • The project has trained farmers in data-driven and record keeping, as well as financial literacy skills.

Sources:

  • "FISH4ACP supports development of catfish value chain" published in Voice of Nigeria on June 10, 2025.
  • Interviews with Dr. Abubakar Usman, National Project Officer FAO-FISH4ACP, and Mr. Onyiade Adeneye, a beneficiary of the FISH4ACP project.
  • FAO and GIZ's collaboration with the Ijebu Development Initiative on Poverty Reduction (IDIPR) center.