By Oluwakemi Kindness
The House of Representatives has passed a bill seeking to establish the Federal College of Fisheries Technology and Marine Engineering in Ngo, Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, in a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s blue economy and expanding technical education.
The bill was approved on Thursday after the House adopted the report of its Committee on Ocean and Fisheries.
Presenting the report, the committee’s Chairman, Rep. Akarachi Etinosa-Amadi, said the legislation amends the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act to provide the legal framework for the new specialised institution.
According to the committee, the proposed college will train skilled professionals in fisheries management, aquaculture and marine engineering, helping to address critical manpower gaps in the maritime sector while supporting economic growth, particularly in the Niger Delta.
The lawmakers also noted that the institution would boost technical and vocational education, promote research and innovation, and contribute to the sustainable development of Nigeria’s marine and fisheries resources.
The committee disclosed that stakeholders unanimously endorsed the proposal during a public hearing held on July 14, 2025, describing the initiative as a strategic investment in the country’s expanding blue economy.
With the House’s approval, the bill will amend the Third Schedule to the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act to formally recognise the college, making it eligible for federal funding and enabling it to commence operations once all legislative processes are completed.
The legislation now moves to the Senate for concurrence before it is transmitted to the President for assent.
