Press Release
Benue Marine & Blue Economy Ministry Takes Over Fisheries Department from Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security
The Benue State Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has formally taken over the Department of Fisheries from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in a move aimed at strengthening aquaculture development and re-aligining Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) for optimal service delivery.
The handover ceremony, which took place at the office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, marked a significant administrative realignment designed to reposition the fisheries sub-sector under a more specialized institutional framework as championed by the administration Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia.
Speaking during the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Pharmacist Elijah Ogagbenu, described the exercise as the beginning of a sustained cordial working relationship between both ministries.
He expressed confidence that the transfer would enhance efficiency and deepen collaboration in the management of aquatic resources.
Pharm. Ogagbenu, who was accompanied by directors of the ministry, commended the Director of Fisheries, Mrs. Nguveren Yaaya, for her dedication to duty and urged her to sustain her professionalism and remain diligent in the discharge of her responsibilities as she transitions into the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
Receiving the handover note on behalf of the Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Denis Ter Iyaghigba, the Director covering duties of Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Charles Kyaave, expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Benjamin Ashaver, for ensuring a seamless and cooperative transition process.
Mr. Kyaave noted that the Department of Fisheries is central to the ministry’s mandate of revitalizing the aquaculture and fisheries sector.
He emphasized that the integration of the department would significantly contribute to repositioning the sector as a viable revenue spinner for the state.
In her remarks, Mrs. Yaaya outlined the mandate and achievements of the fisheries department over the years, while acknowledging that its activities had been hampered by certain unfavorable policies that placed critical aspects of the sector in private hands.
She, however, expressed optimism about the future, pledging to work closely with the leadership of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to rejuvenate the sector.
According to her, priority areas will include the development of hatcheries, rehabilitation of fish ponds, capacity building for stakeholders, and the provision of essential infrastructure.
The transfer is widely seen as a strategic step towards harnessing Benue State’s vast aquatic potential and improving livelihoods through sustainable fisheries development.
Signed:
Lubem Gena, FIIM
Head of Media, Publicity and Orientation
Office of the Honourable Commissioner
Tuesday, 31st March, 2026
08064453683
