Two years after national conversations around the blue economy began gaining momentum, attention is increasingly shifting from policy discussions to implementation. Across the country, organisations are working with fish farmers, entrepreneurs and young professionals to improve aquaculture productivity through better training, technical support and sustainable farming practices.

The Guardian’s Tobi Awodipe spoke with Babatunde Adeleke, Lead Technical Advisor at Aquatic Hub Afrique Network (AHAN), on how practical aquaculture initiatives can help strengthen food security, create jobs and improve climate resilience across Nigeria.

The discussion also centred on the next phase of Nigeria’s aquaculture journey and why building resilient food systems requires more than increased production.

Since your earlier public advocacy on the blue economy, what progress have you seen?

The conversation has certainly matured. A few years ago, much of the focus was on introducing the concept of the blue economy and explaining why it mattered. Today, there is greater recognition that sustainable management of aquatic resources can contribute to food security, employment and economic diversification. The next challenge is ensuring that implementation keeps pace with the growing interest. That requires stronger institutions, technical expertise and long-term investment in people.

Adeleke says that while policy remains important, lasting progress depends on what happens at the community level, where farmers apply knowledge and adopt better production practices.

How is AHAN contributing to that transition from policy to implementation?

Our focus has always been practical. We work directly with farmers, aspiring entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders to strengthen technical capacity. Through training, advisory services and knowledge-sharing, we help people improve production systems while encouraging environmentally responsible practices. Sustainable aquaculture is not simply about producing more fish; it is about producing efficiently, protecting natural resources and creating businesses that remain viable over time.

Food security remains a major concern across Africa. Where does aquaculture fit into the solution?

Aquaculture should be viewed as part of a broader food systems strategy. Fish provides an affordable source of high-quality protein, and increasing domestic production can improve nutrition while reducing pressure on imports. But production alone is not enough. We also need stronger value chains, better technical knowledge, improved market access and continued investment in innovation. Those elements determine whether aquaculture delivers lasting benefits for communities.

The growing involvement of young people in the sector is another encouraging development, according to Adeleke, who believes innovation will continue shaping the future of aquaculture across the continent.

Many young Nigerians are showing interest in aquaculture. What advice would you give them?

Approach aquaculture as a profession rather than simply a business opportunity. Build technical knowledge, understand production systems and remain open to continuous learning. The sector is evolving rapidly, with new technologies and improved management practices emerging every year. Those who invest in developing their expertise will be better positioned to build successful and sustainable enterprises.

Looking ahead, what should Nigeria prioritise?

Collaboration. Government, research institutions, private investors and organisations working in the sector all have important roles to play. If we continue strengthening technical capacity, supporting innovation and encouraging sustainable resource management, Nigeria has every opportunity to become a leader in climate-resilient aquaculture. Food security is not achieved through a single project or policy; it is built through sustained investment in people, knowledge and resilient production systems.