
19/07/2025
Fishermen in Kaduna Hail Bello El-Rufai for Support with Equipment and Canoes
Fishermen along the Kabala River in Kaduna State have praised Hon. Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, member of the House of Representatives for Kaduna North Federal Constituency, for providing fishing equipment and locally made canoes to boost their livelihood.
The support, which includes modern fishing nets and tools, comes as a welcome relief amid the rising cost of fishing gear caused by inflation and fluctuating foreign exchange rates.
One of the beneficiaries, Mallam Dattijon Gada, who fishes near the Kaduna Bridge, expressed his gratitude, saying the assistance has significantly improved his work.
“With the new canoe and equipment, my business has grown. I now supply fish to more markets and have become one of the major river fish suppliers in the state,” Gada said.
Speaking to visiting journalists covering science and environmental issues, Gada highlighted the impact of the donation on the local fishing community. He said the initiative has helped reduce the burden faced by many fishermen who could no longer afford modern fishing tools.
He called on other political leaders to follow Hon. El-Rufai’s example by supporting local trades and small businesses to tackle poverty and unemployment.
“There are many hardworking people in our communities who just need a little help to succeed. If more leaders support us like this, it will reduce poverty and keep our youths engaged,” he said.
Gada also emphasized the need for continued government intervention, noting that the rising cost of fishing gear has made it difficult for many to continue their trade.
“This kind of support will not only improve fish supply in the markets but also encourage more young people to take up fishing as a profession,” he added.