# Global and regional aquaculture development > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-and-regional-aquaculture-development > Updated: 2026-09-04T06:59:28.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2. Discussions regarding the role of aquaculture in global and national food security have highlighted the sector as a critical tool for meeting rising protein demands while minimizing environmental impacts. On a global scale, industry representatives point to aquaculture as the world’s fastest-growing food sector. Proponents argue that fish and shellfish farming can enhance economic development and food security by offering higher feed-to-weight conversion efficiency and lower land and freshwater requirements compared to traditional meat production. In Nigeria, academic experts are calling for the government to treat sustainable aquaculture as a strategic pillar for national food and nutrition sovereignty. Specific recommendations include investing in research to reduce reliance on imported feed ingredients by developing functional aquafeeds—such as those utilizing plant-based proteins and probiotics—to improve fish health and boost industry productivity. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-04: Nigeria urged to prioritize sustainable aquaculture for food security A University of Ilorin professor has urged the Nigerian government to invest in sustainable aquaculture and local feed innovation to enhance food security and reduce import dependence. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nigeria-urged-to-prioritize-sustainable-aquaculture-for-food-security ### 2026-08-22: Aquaculture identified as key to future food security René Christensen argues aquaculture is vital for future food security, citing a World Bank report that identifies it as the fastest-growing food sector with a lower climate footprint than land-based meat. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aquaculture-identified-as-key-to-future-food-security --- Cite as: Global and regional aquaculture development. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-and-regional-aquaculture-development