Fishing Industry in Crisis as Diesel Costs Ground Majority of Trawlers

Nigeria’s fishing industry is facing mounting pressure as soaring diesel prices force more than 80 per cent of vessels owned by members of the Nigerian Trawlers Owners Association (NITOA) out of operation.

The impact is already visible at the Ijora Fish Market, where fish supply has dropped sharply, triggering scarcity and higher prices.

Industry stakeholders say both small-scale and industrial fishing operators are struggling to stay afloat due to rising fuel costs.

Retired Navy Captain Oladele Robinson explained that while artisanal fishers rely on petrol, industrial trawlers depend entirely on diesel, making them particularly vulnerable.

“At times, operators go to sea but are unable to secure enough catch to justify the cost of fuel…”

Sources within NITOA said diesel prices have surged by over 100 per cent, rising from about ₦900 to as high as ₦2,000 per litre, making operations unsustainable.

“Right now, the prices are so high that you can’t even think of fuelling a vessel for a 50-day trip… The vessel will come back at a very big loss.”

As a result, many operators have withdrawn their vessels from active fishing.

“That’s why operators have brought their trawlers back to the jetty rather than remain at sea and continue recording losses.”

The crisis has pushed the sector to the brink, with warnings of broader economic consequences.

“The industry is in a critical situation. Companies are going aground.”

Beyond supply shortages, stakeholders warned of threats to food security and employment.

“If vessels are not running, where do the seafarers go?… close to 10,000 jobs are at risk if there is no immediate government intervention.”

The rising fuel costs have been partly linked to global market disruptions, including tensions involving Iran, which have affected oil supply chains.

“This industry runs 100 per cent on it. There is no alternative. Without diesel, operations stop completely.”

Stakeholders are now calling for government intervention, including possible subsidies or targeted support, to prevent a total collapse of the sector.

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