STRATEGIES FOR DEVELOPING AQUACULTURE AS A TOOL FOR ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE FOOD SECURITY IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Sustainable food security is a critical concern in Nigeria due to a rapidly growing population, declining wild fish stocks, and increasing demand for protein-rich diets. Aquaculture, the controlled cultivation of fish and other aquatic organisms, offers a viable solution to enhance food availability, improve nutrition, generate employment, and promote rural development. This chapter examines the concept of aquaculture and sustainable food security, highlights key factors that can enhance aquaculture development including government policy support, access to finance, quality inputs, technical knowledge, infrastructure, research, and market development and discusses their implications for sustainable food production. The findings suggest that strengthening policy frameworks, improving technical and financial support, promoting innovative technologies, and enhancing market access can significantly boost aquaculture productivity. By integrating these strategies, aquaculture can contribute effectively to achieving sustainable food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability in Nigeria.