The House of Representatives Committee on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Councils and Ancillary Matters has summoned the Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud, to explain the deteriorating condition of the Fish Farm Estate in Bwari, Abuja.
During a recent inspection of the estate, Committee Chairman Fred Agbedi expressed his concerns, stating that the state of the farm contradicts President Bola Tinubu’s vision for achieving food security in Nigeria. Agbedi, representing Bayelsa State and a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, noted that the committee is committed to reviving the farm.
He voiced his frustration over the farm’s abandonment, calling it a promising initiative that had been neglected.
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 major concern.
“There are no utilities or good roads, and there is no staff to operate the facility,” he added.
He expressed sympathy for the investors and local 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 provide an explanation on why the estate has been neglected.
Agbedi emphasized that the National Assembly is determined to ensure the farm is revived 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 to enable farmers to operate safely and contribute to the local economy.
He highlighted the need for more staff at the estate, criticizing the current setup, which relies on just one staff member and an NYSC Corps member.
Further discussions may be held with the estate’s residents to gain a clearer understanding of their concerns. The committee is considering inviting them for a meeting to collectively address the issues and find lasting solutions.
Dabit Jonas Agbo, Acting Director of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Department at the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, explained that the Fish Farm Estate was established following concerns over Nigeria’s reliance on fish imports. The initiative was born out of the 38th annual meeting of the Nigerian National Fisheries Development Committee.
