The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, has been called out by the House of Representatives Committee on the FCT Area Councils and Ancillary Matters to explain the declining situation of the Fish Farm Estate in Bwari, Abuja.

Committee Chairman Fred Agbedi voiced his worries during a recent estate visit, claiming that the farm’s condition contradicts President Bola Tinubu’s plan for ensuring food security in Nigeria. Agbedi, a Peoples Democratic Party member and representative for Bayelsa State, stated that the committee is dedicated to bringing the farm back to life.

He expressed his annoyance at the farm’s closure, describing it as a good project that had been overlooked. 

He expressed frustration over the farm’s abandonment, calling it a promising, neglected initiative.

The committee discovered that the estate lacks essential infrastructure, including electricity, water, drainage, and roads, rendering it unproductive. Agbedi also pointed out the absence of staff to manage the farm and highlighted security as a significant concern. 

“There are no utilities or good roads, and there is no staff to operate the facility,” he added.

He sympathised with the investors and residents who had partnered with the government only to see their efforts go to waste.

The committee has now invited the Minister of State for the FCT to address the issues and explain why the estate has been neglected. 

Agbedi emphasised that the National Assembly must ensure the revival of farms to support Nigeria’s agricultural goals. 

“The National Assembly will work closely with relevant authorities, including the President, to resolve any budget or administrative issues hindering its operation,” he stated.

Agbedi also called on the Nigerian Police to improve security at the estate so that farmers can operate safely and contribute to the local economy. 

He questioned the current arrangement, which depends on a single staff member and an NYSC Corps member, and emphasised the need for additional staff at the estate.

More conversations might be undertaken with the people to understand their issues better. The committee is considering calling them to a meeting to address the problems as a group and develop long-term solutions.

According to Dabit Jonas Agbo, the Acting Director of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Department at the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, the Fish Farm Estate was created in response to worries about Nigeria’s dependence on fish imports. The concept was born at the 38th annual meeting of the Nigerian National Fisheries Development Committee. 

Source: AgroNigeria