A fish expert and the 2nd Inaugural Lecturer at the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology (OYSCATECH), Igboora, who doubles as the Director of Academic Planning, Dr. Olubunmi Adeosun has called on the Federal Government to support local production of fish in Nigeria, in order to address the shortfall in fish consumption and production, for sustainable fish production in the country.
The Don made this known during the 2nd OYSCATECH Inaugural lecture held on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, titled “From Harvest to Plate; the Journey of the Pearls of the Waters.”
Dr. Adeosun hinted that the shortfall in fish production is a major reason that prevented Nigerians from having adequate fish to consume, thereby giving room for the importation of fish into the country.
Adeosun implored the Federal Government to support fish producers and fish processors in Nigeria in order to boost production, while advocating for constant training and sensitization of producers and processors including retailers about the dangers in the use of insecticides on human health.
She explained that unhygienic practices of handling during and after production, plays a major role in food contamination, while calling for proper cleaning and sanitation procedures to increase the quality of fish and fish products.
According to her,” fish is a nutritious food source packaged with essential nutrients and great addition to healthy diet and the American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least, two times per week.
“Fish food and safety is critical to consumers due to its health implication and to exploit the export potential for smoked farmed catfish, there is the need for strict adherence to international quality and safety standard.
“Fish are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, essential for heart health and brain function. Fish also provides array of vitamins, including vitamin D for bone health and calcium absorption, vitamin B supports metabolism and vitamin A promotes vision, bone growth and immunity and fatty acids which plays role in energy supply, vitamin absorption.”
Dr. Adeosun appealed that fish processors need to consider the health of consumers as paramount and should avoid the use of insecticides in the preservation of smoked cat fish. She hinted that fish farmers should avoid giving junk food as feeds for the fish and excessive use of antibiotics, while appealing that they embrace healthy practices in the production and processing of fish.
She equally advised consumers to be aware of what they buy in the market and the quality of the fish they consume because of their health, while appealing to stakeholders in fisheries management to strategize and control the use of unregulated preservatives and enforce good manufacturing practices.
Earlier, the Rector, Prof. Akinola Akinlabi appreciated the past Principal Officers of the institution, whom he referred to as Heroes, as he pointed out that their labour will not be in vain. He also thanked the Oyo State Government for prompt release of subvention which is been utilized for salary payment.
He posited that the institution will not relent in its vision of training for innovation, food sufficiency and self-employment.
The inaugural lecture was well attended by both past and present principal officers of the institution among whom are Dr. Ariyo Okunlola, Dr. Sarafa Agbogun, Dr. Taiwo Akinyemi, Dr. Kolawole Raheem, Mr. R. F.A. Adeniji, Mr. Modupe Ogundapo, Mr. R. O. Oyewo and Engr. Dauda Salaam.
Other dignitaries at the event include; Mr. Joseph Oladapo Olaoye and Dr. Opeyemi Ajuwon, Governing Council Members, Mr. Olajire Gbadamosi, Secretary to the Management, Pastor Ayanboye, Dr. Oluyemi Ayanboye, the pioneer Chairman Committee of Deans in OYSCATECH, now a lecturer with the University of Osun, Prof. Flora Olaifa of University of Ibadan, Mr. Ezekiel Oluwadamilola Adeosun, the husband to the inaugural Lecturer, Mr. Festus Ojediran and Mr. Solomon Olubiyi Ojediran of Oyelami Dynasty, Young Women Christian Association CMDS Branch, Dr. Ogunjobi, the Director of Academic Planning, Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa, Mr. Abeeb Beulah from the University of Ibadan and CSP Ogunlade Fisayo, the Commandant, Police Secondary School.
Other dignitaries are Deans of Faculties, namely; Mr. S. A. Ariwoola, Dr. Mutiu Mosobalaje, Dr. Samson Amoo, Mr. Olusola Adeleke, Dr. Oladapo Ojo, Engr. A.J. Adesope, Dr. Julius Alalade, Dean of Students, Directors, Sub-Deans, Senior Teaching and Non-Teaching Staff Members, Heads of Departments, Staff and the Students, among others.
E-signed;
Olawore, H. Opeyemi MNIPR
Public Relations Officer
6/11/2025