The Lagos State Government has sponsored research into the use of Sargassum (seaweed) for the development of entrepreneurship in coastal fishing communities within the State.
Mr. Hakeem Fahm, the Honourable Commissioner for Science and Technology, stated in a statement that the study would investigate adopting active, balanced actions to acknowledge the obstacles and decrease the effect of sargassum seaweed while maximising its advantages.
He stated that the State Government has authorised the creation of a Centre of Excellence for Sargassum Research (CESAR) at the Lagos State University in Ojo to lead the research, and that the Lagos State Science, Research and Innovation Council (LASRIC).
Fahm stated that the research will investigate the management and utilisation of sargassum for the empowerment of fishing communities in Nigeria and other countries where it has previously been viewed as a nuisance, noting that the process of utilising sargassum for entrepreneurial purposes in coastal communities is currently underway.
His words: “The research will also examine the taxonomy, geography and distribution of the sargassum worldwide, evaluate the impact of the sargassum weed on fisheries and other means of livelihood in the coastal communities, explain the economic, medicinal and other values of the sargassum weed”.
According to him, the Research will be championed by Professor Martin Anetekhai, a renowned Professor of Fisheries at LASU and LASRIC member.
Fahm remarked that it is necessary to garner community support for the project, adding that the most reliable means of accomplishing this objective are a sufficient community reaction and a cooperation between private company owners and the government.
The Commissioner said that Lagos State would stay dedicated to advancing scientific research and activities in the public and commercial sectors via innovations in science and technology.
This plant is an aquatic weed. It can survive and reproduce fast at the surface of fresh water while floating freely. It continues to rapidly grow in temperate, tropical, and subtropical regions and is likely one of the most dangerous aquatic weeds.
Species of Sargassum are found in temperate and tropical waters worldwide, where they often occupy shallow water and coral reefs.