Nigerian Navy Launches Operation Abo Eja Against Illegal Fishing

The Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with the Federal Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture (FDFA), launched Operation Abo Eja to address illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in Nigeria. The operation commenced aboard Nigerian Navy Ship KADA in Lagos last week and aimed to strengthen surveillance and enforce fisheries regulations.

During the operation, three fishing trawlers were intercepted, and approximately 30 crew members were arrested for suspected fisheries violations. Nigeria faces a significant fish supply deficit, importing over 70% of its fish requirements, with an annual demand of about 3.6 million tonnes against local production of roughly 1.1 million tonnes.

The financial loss due to IUU fishing is estimated between $30 million and $70 million annually. Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, representing Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, stated that the operation signifies a deliberate effort to protect Nigeria’s marine resources and support the country's blue economy ambitions.