Delta Govt Distributes 50 Fishing Boats to Artisanal Fishermen, Announces More Boats

Delta Govt Distributes 50 Fishing Boats to Artisanal Fishermen, Announces More Boats

By Directreporters 

Delta Govt Distributes 50 Fishing Boats to Artisanal Fishermen, Announces More Boats

The Delta State Government has commenced the distribution of 50 fishing boats equipped with 15HP Yamaha outboard engines and fishing nets to artisanal fishermen across the Warri Federal Constituency.

The initiative, aimed at strengthening the fishing sector, improving food security and enhancing the livelihoods of fishermen in the state's riverine communities, was unveiled on Monday in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area.

The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor , who represented the Governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori , at the ceremony, said the intervention was part of the administration's commitment to empowering communities and creating sustainable economic opportunities for the people.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Guwor described fishing as an important part of the economic and cultural life of maritime communities, stressing that it is more than a means of livelihood but a tradition passed down from one generation to another.

He noted that many artisanal fishermen had continued to operate under challenging conditions due to inadequate equipment and rising operational costs.

According to him, the provision of the fishing boats, engines and nets was designed to give the fishermen the necessary tools to improve their productivity, increase their income and provide better opportunities for their families and communities.

“What the government is doing is not to give you fish, but to give you the tools to catch fish, improve your productivity and enhance your livelihood,” he said.

The Speaker urged the beneficiaries to make proper use of the boats, engines and fishing nets, warning them against selling the equipment.

He explained that the boats were provided strictly for fishing activities and were intended to improve the livelihoods of the beneficiaries and strengthen the state's fishing industry.

“These boats cannot be sold for any reason. They are meant to improve the livelihood of our fishermen and support fishing activities in our communities,” he cautioned.

Guwor further disclosed that the distribution represented only the first phase of the intervention programme.

He announced that Governor Oborevwori had directed the Commissioner in charge of Fisheries to commence preparations for the production of another set of fishing boats for the people of the Warri South maritime constituency and other parts of Delta State.

The announcement was greeted with applause from the gathering.

He said the state government recognised the important role played by artisanal fishing communities in the state's economy and food security, assuring that the administration would continue to support the sector.

The Speaker also commended the fishermen and residents of the riverine communities for their enthusiasm and large turnout at the event.

The ceremony was attended by government officials, local government chairmen, political leaders, community leaders, traditional stakeholders, beneficiaries and members of the media.

Among those present were the Commissioner in charge of Fisheries, the Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Hon. Oligie Samuel, Chairman of Warri North Local Government Council, Hon. Festus Ani Ashima, Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council, Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, representatives of Warri South-West Local Government Council, Special Advisers to the Governor and other government functionaries.

The event also featured cultural performances and entertainment, with the Speaker commending the dancers and young entertainers for adding colour and excitement to the ceremony.

He expressed appreciation to the people of the Warri maritime communities for turning out in large numbers to welcome the government delegation, reaffirming the administration's commitment to ensuring that no part of Delta State is left behind in its development and empowerment programmes.