The House of Representatives Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Councils and Ancillary Matters has decided to engage with the Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Bunkure, to explore ways of bringing the Bwari Fish Farm Estate back to life.

This resolution followed the committee’s inspection of the site, which was described as being in a “comatose” state.

Chairman of the Committee, Fred Agbedi (PDP-Bayelsa) expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the facility, noting that it falls short of President Bola Tinubu’s vision of ensuring food sufficiency across the country.

He pointed out the lack of essential amenities, including electricity, potable water, proper drainage, and accessible roads, all of which have left the facility virtually unusable.

Agbedi further highlighted the alarming staffing situation, revealing that only one corps member is currently assigned to the estate.

He stressed that the neglected state of the farm is inconsistent with the president’s ambition to transform Nigeria into a key player in agriculture and guarantee food availability.

“The committee has resolved to summon the FCT Minister of State who supervises the agriculture department to appear before it and explain the reasons behind the neglect of the estate,” he said.

He added that the committee plans to collaborate with top government officials, including the president, to resolve any funding or bureaucratic challenges affecting the estate.

Agbedi instructed the acting Director of the Agriculture Department in the FCTA to provide all necessary documents that could support the committee’s inquiry.

He also appealed to the Inspector General of Police to maintain law and order within and around the facility.

Agbedi reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to revitalizing the fish farm, stating that no effort would be spared in rallying the support of all relevant agencies to ensure the estate becomes productive and aligns with the agricultural objectives of the FCT.