Illegal Fishing in Gulf of Guinea Targets €59 Million EU Support

Illegal fishing in Gulf of Guinea has become a major concern for Nigeria as the country seeks additional support to protect its marine resources.

The Federal Government plans to leverage the €59 million West Africa Sustainable Ocean Programme. The European Union backs the initiative to strengthen fisheries management and ocean governance across West Africa.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed the plan during a meeting with European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, in Abuja.

A statement issued by the minister’s Special Adviser, Bolaji Akinola, confirmed the development.

Nigeria Loses Millions To Illegal Fishing Activities

According to estimates from the Fisheries Cooperative Federation of Nigeria Limited, the country loses about $70 million every year.

The losses stem from outdated regulations and weak enforcement systems. Illegal and unlicensed operators also continue to exploit Nigeria’s waters.

These activities have affected fish stocks and reduced economic opportunities within coastal communities.

As a result, authorities have intensified efforts to address the growing challenge.

Oyetola Warns Of Security And Food Risks

Oyetola said illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing threatens food security and national stability.

He stressed that the activities endanger the livelihoods of thousands of people who depend on the fisheries sector.

According to the minister:

“Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing is a direct threat to national security, food sovereignty and the survival of our coastal communities.”

He warned that continuous exploitation of marine resources weakens coastal economies and depletes fish populations.

Therefore, he called for stronger regional cooperation and improved surveillance systems.

Oyetola also advocated tougher enforcement measures to stop offenders.

“This is necessary to permanently dismantle these illicit operations and safeguard our waters,” he added.

Government Pursues Blue Economy Reforms

Beyond tackling illegal fishing, the minister highlighted reforms under the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.

He explained that the reforms seek to attract private investment and encourage innovation.

According to Oyetola, the government has improved port efficiency and maritime logistics.

He also noted progress in maritime security and infrastructure development.

These measures aim to strengthen Nigeria’s position in global trade.

Furthermore, the minister appealed for greater technical support from the European Union.

He specifically requested assistance in surveillance technology, fisheries monitoring and enforcement capacity.

European Union Reaffirms Commitment

European Union Ambassador Gautier Mignot reaffirmed support for maritime cooperation with Nigeria and other West African countries.

He explained that the West Africa Sustainable Ocean Programme focuses on sustainable fisheries management and ecosystem protection.

The initiative also seeks to improve coordination among coastal nations.

In addition, the programme aims to strengthen enforcement frameworks across the region.

Mignot noted that the project supports the development of an inclusive and sustainable blue economy.

Growing Interest In Nigeria’s Fisheries Sector

The €59 million programme comes at a time of rising interest in Nigeria’s marine industry.

Recently, Tantalizers Plc signed a memorandum of understanding with Karflex Fisheries Limited and Karflex Investment Limited.

The agreement covers the proposed acquisition of 24 fish trawlers and shrimpers.

It also includes 13 cold room facilities and several commercial fisheries assets.

The move reflects increasing confidence in the sector.

Earlier, the Federal Government announced plans to reduce dependence on fish imports.

Authorities also pledged support for young people and women interested in fisheries-related businesses.

These initiatives form part of broader efforts to boost local production and expand marine investments.

Illegal fishing in Gulf of Guinea continues to threaten Nigeria’s marine resources and coastal communities. Consequently, the Federal Government is seeking to benefit from the €59 million EU-backed programme to strengthen surveillance and enforcement.

At the same time, ongoing reforms and increased investment interest could help unlock opportunities within the country’s growing blue economy sector.