Fish Farmers in Lagos Raise Concerns Over Pricing Control

Fish farmers in Lagos have raised concerns over pricing practices they say are hurting their businesses. The Lagos State Catfish Allied Farmers Association of Nigeria says middlemen currently determine market prices, despite rising production costs.

The association’s chairman, Mr. Olatoye Fajimi, said in Lagos that farmers are struggling to cover expenses due to high costs of feed and fuel, while selling prices remain low. He said this situation has reduced profit margins and left many farmers unable to recover their investment after harvest.

The group warned that the imbalance in pricing could affect the aquaculture sector and threaten the income of farmers. It also noted that continued low returns may discourage investment and reduce fish production in the state.

Mr. Fajimi added that financial institutions are becoming reluctant to lend to fish farmers due to repayment challenges linked to low profitability. He said this has limited access to credit and slowed growth in the sector.

To address the issue, the association said it is in talks with the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems. The state government is considering a plan to buy fish directly from farmers at agreed prices under a proposed agreement.

The association said the move could help stabilise the market and ensure farmers earn enough to cover costs. It added that fair pricing and better market structure are needed to support fish production and maintain food supply.