National Fish Association Of Nigeria (NFAN) Official Condolence Message.

NFAN TRIBUTE TO THE LATE SIR WELLINGTON OSA OMORAGBON (1967-2026),THE FEDERAL DIRECTOR OF FISHERIES, MINISTRY OF MARINE AND BLUE ECONOMY.

The National Fish Association of Nigeria (NFAN), the umbrella body of the entire fisheries and aquaculture industry value chain in Nigeria, deeply expresses due sense of sorrow over the sudden demise of Sir Wellington Osa Omoragbon KSM , the Federal Director of Fisheries, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

The initial news of his passing came across with some doubts but its reality soon left a telling painful loss to the fisheries and aquaculture industry, the Federal Civil Service, and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy where he made overwhelming impact in serving the interest of all stakeholders.

As the pioneer Director of Fisheries, Mr. Omoragbon brought his wealth of brilliant experience from the Ministry of Agriculture to bear in that new Office, thereby lending credence to the wisdom of Mr. President in creating the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

In the first major Stakeholders Engagement Summit held in Lagos in 2024, we reckoned that he played key roles, representing the fisheries and aquaculture arm of the new Ministry, advocating inter-agency and stakeholder collaboration. He obviously cared for the livelihoods of fisherfolk and the economic treasure of Nigeria’s aquatic resources.

Outside the shores of Nigeria, Wellington Osa Omoragbon’s progressive legacies include outstanding public administration, regional cooperation where he Chaired the Advisory and Coordinating Committee for the fisheries governance and collaboration amongst the Gulf of Guinea countries. He was a strong advocate of regional cooperation, ensuring that commitments by member countries and critical institutions are translated into practical actions.
His passing is, therefore, deeply felt by all who share a commitment to the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s fisheries and aquaculture industry.

On behalf of the National Executive Committee, members, and the entire fisheries and aquaculture community represented by NFAN, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, relatives, friends, colleagues at the Ministry, and all those who had the privilege of working with him.

At this difficult moment, we pray that Almighty God grants his family the strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss, comforts his loved ones, and grants his soul eternal rest.

While we mourn his sudden death at the twilight of his distinguished career, we also recognise the importance of preserving the values of dedication, professionalism and the public service ethics that we hoped his handover note should have contained to enrich the fisheries sector institutional memories.
May his contributions to the growth and development of the fisheries and aquaculture industry remain a source of inspiration to us and others who continue to work towards a stronger and more sustainable blue economy.
*Lastly, we passionately request and pledge to join hands with the government and significant other to honour and immortalise this fallen patriot.*

Here was *Sir Wellington Osakpamwan Omoragbon!* When comes such another?

May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

Signed:
Dr. Ladan Aliyu,
President.

Turner Ogboru Esq,
National Secretary.