Fish farmers in Lagos State have raised concerns over what they describe as unfair pricing practices by marketers and middlemen, which they say are severely affecting their profit margins.
The Chairman of the Lagos State Catfish Allied Farmers Association of Nigeria (LASCAFAN), Mr. Olatoye Fajimi, explained that while the cost of fish production continues to rise, farmers are forced to sell at low prices dictated by buyers.
According to him, the inability of farmers to determine the selling price of their produce has made fish farming increasingly unprofitable. He noted that expenses such as fish feed and fuel have gone up significantly, yet these increases are not reflected in market prices.
Fajimi revealed that the association had engaged the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems on the issue, with discussions centered on a proposed off-taking arrangement. Under this plan, the government would enter into agreements with farmers before production, guaranteeing the purchase of a set quantity of fish at agreed rates.
He said the initiative, once implemented, could help stabilize prices and ensure farmers earn reasonable returns, although it is yet to take effect.
The LASCAFAN chairman also pointed out that the pricing challenge has made it difficult for fish farmers to access loans, as financial institutions remain reluctant to fund a sector where returns are uncertain.
He stressed that without fair pricing structures, many farmers struggle to break even, calling for urgent measures to protect producers and sustain the industry.