Catfish farming is gaining popularity in Dutse, Jigawa, as more residents embrace aquaculture as a source of income, food security and employment.
A survey by reporters on Friday showed that growing demand for fresh catfish and increased awareness of its profitability were encouraging more residents to establish fish ponds.
Mr Abdulkahar Lawal, a catfish farmer, said the business had become a viable source of sustainable income when properly managed and supported with the right resources.
Lawal said he ventured into aquaculture after noticing the rising demand for catfish in Dutse, adding that the business had continued to grow despite operational challenges.
“Catfish farming is profitable because people consume catfish every day. Restaurants, households and fish vendors are always looking for fresh catfish,” he said.
He, however, identified the rising cost of fish feed and other inputs as major challenges, stressing that effective management was essential for profitable production.
Lawal appealed to governments and financial institutions to provide soft loans and subsidised inputs to encourage more youths to venture into catfish farming and boost aquaculture development.
Mrs Samira Ali, another farmer, said fish farming had provided her with financial independence while creating opportunities for women and other residents interested in the business.
She said the enterprise had enabled her to support her family, urging more women to explore catfish farming rather than depend solely on traditional trading activities.
“Many people think catfish farming is only for men, but women can also succeed in the business with proper training and commitment,” Ali said.
She called for regular training, technical support and access to affordable inputs to help farmers improve production and overcome challenges.
Mrs Fatima Nura, a resident, said the increasing number of catfish farms had made fresh fish more accessible and affordable in Dutse.
“I now buy fresh catfish directly from local farmers instead of waiting for supplies from other states. The catfish is always fresh and tastes better,” she said.
Another resident, Mrs Sakina Iliyasu, said catfish farming was an important economic activity that could reduce unemployment by providing youths with alternative livelihoods.
She called for increased support to help expand fish production and create more jobs.
Mr Tahir Abdullahi said the growth of catfish farming had boosted the local economy through jobs created across the value chain.
He said the business benefited not only pond owners but also fish sellers, transporters, processors and suppliers of feed and other farming materials.
An agricultural expert in Dutse, Mr Murtala Muhammad, said catfish farming could improve nutrition, reduce poverty and contribute to Jigawa’s economic development.
He identified access to finance, modern production techniques and affordable inputs as key factors needed to expand aquaculture in the state.
Muhammad expressed optimism that sustained investment and increased awareness would enable catfish farming to grow further and contribute significantly to agricultural development in Jigawa.
