In recent times, veterinarians and animal scientists have
contributed to the development of techniques to increase the
sources of animal protein in order to supplement existing
sources of protein. Fish is an important source of protein and
provides about 40% of the dietary intake of animal protein.
With the need for self reliance at both national and grass-root
level, fish production offers a good potential if properly
adopted. Additionally, increase in small scale aquaculture
projects in towns and villages will create employment and
alleviate poverty. Fish production involves controlling culture
environment and rearing of fish in captivity; to enhance
production and prevent diseases and predators as well as good
husbandry management practices. However, the main factors
affecting aquaculture in Nigeria include extreme climatic
conditions, flood, water pollution, ignorance and lack of
adequate technology, lack of loans and grants, fish diseases
and problems of preservation. Despite all these challenges,
fish production has the potential to expand the national
resource base, generate foreign exchange and elevate the
socio-economic status of fish farmers.