By Christian Appleton
Lagos, Nigeria – July 21, 2025 — A high-level Liberian parliamentary delegation has begun official engagements with crucial Nigerian institutions, aiming to bolster bilateral cooperation in the fisheries and marine sectors.
Led by Hon. Anthony F. Williams, Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Fisheries Management and Aquaculture Committee, the delegation commenced its visit today with meetings at the Nigerian Federal Department of Fisheries and the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR) in Lagos.
Dr. Sule Abiodun, Executive Director of NIOMR, welcomed the Liberian delegation on behalf of Nigeria’s Minister of Maritime and Blue Economy. He underscored Nigeria’s eagerness to collaborate, highlighting several potential areas for partnership. These include fisheries research, aquaculture development, oyster farming, post-harvest management, and mariculture.
A particular focus was placed on NIOMR’s advanced research vessel. Dr. Abiodun noted that this vessel is equipped to perform thorough stock assessments in the Gulf of Guinea, suggesting it could be a significant asset for Liberia’s own fisheries management efforts.
In his remarks, Hon. Williams extended greetings from the Speaker and members of the 55th National Legislature. He characterized the visit as an essential learning opportunity, reiterating Liberia’s dedication to improving its fisheries governance. He also announced Liberia’s upcoming Investment Forum on Fisheries and invited Nigeria’s ongoing participation and support.
Hon. Emmanuel Dahn, also a member of the delegation, reinforced the call for increased collaboration and knowledge exchange between the two West African nations.
This visit follows the delegation’s recent engagements in Ghana, where they studied best practices in fisheries governance and aquaculture systems, marking a continuation of Liberia’s regional outreach efforts.
Both Liberia and Nigeria expressed optimism that this deepened cooperation will promote sustainable marine resource management and stimulate regional growth within the burgeoning blue economy.