The Department of Fisheries, Federal College of Horticulture, Dadin-Kowa (FCHDK), has held a departmental seminar titled “Fish Hybridisation: A Key to Enhancing Aquaculture Production and Economic Growth in Nigeria,” emphasising innovative strategies to strengthen Nigeria’s fish production capacity.
The seminar, held at the Conference Hall of the Horticultural Centre, featured a presentation by Tusayi Bwaranne Wilson, Ph.D., Head of the Fisheries Department, and was moderated by Dr. Abubakar Wakili, who also served as Seminar Coordinator.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Wakili stressed that academic seminars are essential platforms for knowledge exchange and professional development. He noted that the initiative aligns with the vision of the Acting Provost, Dr. Umar A. Umar, to promote research-driven solutions and academic excellence within the College.
Delivering the keynote presentation, Dr. Tusayi underscored the importance of fisheries to Nigeria’s food security and economic development. He described fish as a highly nutritious source of animal protein containing all nine essential amino acids required by the human body. Beyond its health benefits, he noted that the fisheries sector provides employment opportunities and contributes significantly to income generation.
According to him, Nigeria’s annual fish demand stands at approximately 2.2 million metric tonnes, while domestic production from capture fisheries and aquaculture remains far below this figure. With about 1.6 million metric tonnes imported annually, the country faces a significant production deficit.
Dr. Tusayi identified aquaculture as the most viable solution to bridging this gap, particularly through fish hybridization. He explained that hybridisation improves growth rates, disease resistance, survival rates, feed efficiency, and environmental adaptability, making it a strategic tool for increasing productivity.
He also advocated the establishment of a standard fish hatchery within the College. Drawing from his research experience in crossbreeding multiple fish species to produce improved strains, he stated that FCH Dadin-Kowa has the technical capacity to develop superior broodstock in controlled environments. Such a facility, he added, would enhance practical training, research output, and internally generated revenue.
Participants actively engaged in discussions during the interactive session, highlighting the need for interdisciplinary collaboration in future academic engagements.
The Deputy Provost, Dr. Isiyaka Ibrahim, represented by Dr. Hassan Adeshina, commended the presenter and participants, describing the seminar as timely and impactful.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening aquaculture development as a pathway to improving food security and stimulating economic growth in Nigeria.
