Flood: Delta fishermen bemoan loss of N250m worth of fish

FISHMERMEN at the Camp 74 Fish Farms in Asaba, Delta State capital, whose farms were destroyed last week by flood, yesterday told the state governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, that they lost over N250 million worth of fish to the flood, adding that they had about 1,000 fish ponds producing over 80 tonnes of fish per month. This came as Okowa doled out N35, 250,000 to assist fish farmers. They disclosed this when the governor, accompanied by members of the state executive council, went to the camp to inspect the devastation done to the fish farms by last Wednesday’s flood. Chairman of fishermen association in the camp, Mr Nwanneka Upright, who spoke on behalf of others, thanked the governor for the assistance, noting that the state government’s prompt response to their plight was commendable. Addressing the fishermen, the governor said: “I have heard a lot about Camp 74 before now but, unfortunately my first visit is coming at a time that you all were affected by a flood disaster. It is rather unfortunate, especially, with the fact that we are still expecting floods. “We should be prepared for the flood and those living along the River Niger, those affected by the last flood, should relocate to safe areas while measures should be taken to protect investments, fish farms and others. I was briefed on the events that happened and I have also been informed that the Ministry of Environment has taken actions by bringing in swamp buggies to de-silt the river at the moment. From the sand, they will erect embankments to avoid re-occurrence. Further, things will be done during the dry season but we will do all we can to ensure that we are able to save your farms and ponds from further disaster. “In the first instance, I must appreciate all of you for demonstrating that as young people, either from school, out of school or even from within the communities, that it is possible for a young man to work hard to fend for himself.”