By Abbas Nazil
Overfishing, marine pollution and other related challenges across the Gulf of Guinea have constituted issues for serious concern for the Gulf’s owner-countries.
The ministers and other officials in charge of fishery sectors of the member states deliberated over these issues at 15th Session of the Conference of Ministers of the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea (FCWC) which held in Liberia, December 11 to December 13.
The conference focused on enhancing regional collaboration in fisheries management and promoting sustainable marine practices.
It brought together ministers and fisheries experts from member states to address pressing challenges, share progress, and adopt actionable resolutions for the benefit of the region.
Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Oyetola Adeboyega, emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to fostering regional partnerships and sustainable practices to safeguard marine resources and ensure food security.
Oyetola called for collective action by member states on overfishing, marine pollution and other challenges, which formed the major issues for deliberation at the conference.
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He noted that the outcomes of the conference would shape Nigeria’s approach to marine governance and contribute to achieving broader regional goals.
FCWC Secretary Dr. Gaston Antoine Djihinto praised the collective efforts of member states and partners, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable fisheries.
He acknowledged Nigeria’s active role in the committee’s initiatives and applauded the leadership of all involved.
The conference agenda included presentations on critical projects, such as the Regional Record of Authorized Fishing Vessels (RRAFV), the Global Environment Facility-funded MarEcoPlan project on marine spatial planning, and the Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity (GFRA).
Delegates also reviewed the Promotion of Sustainable Aquaculture and Competitiveness of Fisheries Value Chains (PROMAC) project and strategies for implementing closed fishing seasons across the region.
Ghana’s Fisheries Commission Executive Director and ACC Chair, Fred Antwi-Boadu, commended the FCWC Secretariat for its impactful work in fisheries governance.
He emphasized the need for member countries to deepen cooperation and implement policies that ensure the long-term sustainability of marine resources.
The 15th Session of the Conference of Ministers concluded with the adoption of key recommendations aimed at strengthening regional fisheries governance and promoting economic opportunities.
