The Kwara State government has launched a weekly fish market where residents can buy various fish at relatively low prices.
LEADERSHIP Friday reports that the initiative forms part of the government’s efforts at ensuring that the people of the state eat more nutritious food.
The weekly fish market will be taking place at the premises of the state’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Ilorin , the state capital.
The commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas confirmed that the maiden edition of the weekly fish market was held last Thursday.
“The Thursday Fish Market provides a unique opportunity for residents to access a wide variety of fresh and processed fish, including catfish, tilapia, croaker, etc, at highly affordable prices.
“Fish breeders can also purchase fingerlings, juvenile catfish, fish feeds, and medications. Additionally, consultancy services will be available to assist new and experienced fish farmers in areas such as fish farming and processing, ensuring growth across the entire fish value chain, “ the commissioner said.
The director Fishery in the ministry, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Ajayi said that the market is the first of its kind not just in Kwara State but also in Nigeria.
“The uniqueness of our Thursday Fish Market centres around quality, affordability, and longevity in shelf life,” she said.
A resident who patronised the market on its day of the inauguration, Mrs Faoziyah Abdulazeez, noted the significant price difference between the “Thursday Fish Market” and other markets in the state.
She urged the government to extend similar opportunities to other communities across the state.
A fish seller, Mrs. Yemisi Oluwole, noted the market’s impact on local fish farmers, thanking the state government for providing such a platform to enhance trade and economic activities.
