Nigeria is seeking to tap into a €59 million European Union-backed programme to strengthen the fight against illegal fishing across West Africa, as the country moves to protect marine resources and unlock greater value from its growing blue economy.

The initiative comes as authorities intensify efforts to curb illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in the Gulf of Guinea, one of Africa’s most important maritime corridors for trade, fisheries, and economic activity.

Nigeria Turns to EU-Backed Ocean Programme

The Federal Government wants to leverage the West Africa Sustainable Ocean Programme (WASOP), a €59 million regional initiative supported by the European Union. The programme focuses on improving ocean governance, protecting marine ecosystems, strengthening fisheries management, and enhancing cooperation among coastal nations.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed the plan during a meeting with EU Ambassador to Nigeria Gautier Mignot, in Abuja.

According to the minister, Nigeria is seeking both financial and technical support to improve monitoring, surveillance, and enforcement capabilities across its territorial waters.

Why Illegal Fishing Is a Growing Concern

Illegal fishing has become a major challenge for Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Industry estimates suggest the country loses around $70 million annually due to outdated regulations, weak enforcement systems, and the activities of unlicensed fishing operators exploiting Nigerian waters.

Beyond economic losses, illegal fishing threatens food security, reduces fish stocks, and undermines the livelihoods of thousands of coastal residents who depend on fishing for income and survival.

Oyetola warned that illegal fishing is no longer just an environmental issue but also a national security concern because of its impact on coastal communities and marine resources.

A Boost for Nigeria’s Blue Economy Strategy

The push for EU support aligns with Nigeria’s broader ambition to expand its blue economy and reduce dependence on oil revenues.

The government has been promoting reforms under the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, aimed at attracting private investment, improving maritime infrastructure, and creating sustainable economic opportunities from ocean resources.

Officials say improvements in port operations, maritime logistics, and security have already begun to position Nigeria as a stronger player in regional and international trade.

International Cooperation Seen as Key

Nigeria is also calling for stronger regional cooperation to tackle maritime crimes that often cross national boundaries.

Authorities believe that improved surveillance systems, fisheries monitoring technology, and coordinated enforcement among Gulf of Guinea nations will be critical to reducing illegal activities at sea.

The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting maritime governance and sustainable fisheries management across West Africa through the WASOP initiative.

What This Means for Nigeria

If successful, Nigeria’s participation in the programme could strengthen fisheries oversight, improve protection of marine ecosystems, and reduce revenue losses linked to illegal fishing.

It could also support the government’s efforts to increase local fish production, reduce dependence on imports, and create more opportunities within the fisheries value chain.

As competition for marine resources grows across West Africa, stronger enforcement and regional cooperation may become increasingly important to protecting one of Nigeria’s most underutilised economic assets.

FAQs

Why is Nigeria seeking EU support to fight illegal fishing?

Nigeria wants financial and technical support to improve surveillance, fisheries monitoring, and enforcement against illegal fishing activities.

What is the WASOP programme?

The West Africa Sustainable Ocean Programme is a €59 million EU-backed initiative designed to improve ocean governance and sustainable fisheries management across West Africa.