To sustain fishing practices and enforcement of existing fisheries regulations in the State, the Commissioner for Livestock, Aquaculture and Fisheries, Hon. Ekpenyong Francis Edet has reaffirmed Government's commitment to sustain collaboration with stakeholders in the fishery sector The Commissioner who was speaking during a courtesy visit to him by the Fishermen Association at his office, reiterated the State's readiness to strengthen the development of the fisheries sector. Hon. Ekpenyong Edet expressed readiness to work closely with fishermen and other relevant stakeholders to address challenges confronting the fisheries sector. He assured that the Ministry will not create unnecessary difficulties for genuine fishermen but will rather work with them to promote compliance, protect their livelihoods and ensure the sustainable management of the State’s aquatic resources. Earlier, the Chairman of the Association, Mr. Arikpo Okoi Eteng noted that the absence of comprehensive and reliable data on fishermen and fishing communities over the years has affected effective planning and the delivery of government interventions. "The Ministry was interested in collaborating with the association to identify fishermen across various fishing communities and establish reliable contact persons to facilitate data collection and access to relevant government programmes," Mr. Eteng added. He emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that government agencies could not effectively reach every fishing community without the active participation and cooperation of the fishermen. He also raised concerns over illegal fishing practices, their impact on public health and the aquatic environment. He stressed the need for advocacy, awareness and responsible enforcement of existing fisheries laws to discourage practices that could endanger aquatic resources and the health of consumers. The visit provided an opportunity for the association to interact with Hon. Ekpenyong Francis Edet and officials of the Ministry on key issues affecting fishermen and fishing communities across the state, including data collection, government interventions, sustainable fishing practices and enforcement of existing fisheries regulations. Also speaking, Head of the Fisheries Department, Mr. Akoh Eddy Akoh expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as an opportunity to establish a stronger working relationship between the Ministry and the Association. Mr. Akoh pledged the support and cooperation of his department towards initiatives aimed at improving the fisheries sector and the welfare of fishermen across the State. The courtesy visit ended with both parties expressing their commitment to continued engagement and collaboration towards sustainable fisheries development and improved livelihoods for fishing communities in the State. Arit Ubi
