Seafood is no longer just a coastal delicacy—it has become a thriving staple in Abuja’s food economy, transforming from occasional luxury to everyday cuisine for many households in Nigeria’s capital. From the smoky aroma of grilled catfish at street joints to the refined flavours of shrimp pasta in fine-dining restaurants, seafood has carved a firm place in the hearts—and diets—of Abuja residents.
🐟 From the Market: The Business of Freshness
One of the epicentres of Abuja’s seafood trade is the Kado Fish Market, where trade begins as early as 6:30 am. Ice buckets, freezers, bargaining voices, and a bustling flow of trucks and customers shape the day. Traders like F.K. Lawnson, who has been in the seafood business for over 10 years, say shrimp remains the fastest-selling and most profitable item on their menu.
“With quality products and consistency, customers always return,” Lawnson says. “Electricity is our biggest challenge—but we keep pushing.”
Veteran vendor Ibrahim Adamu, 35 years in the business, echoes similar concerns about power supply but believes seafood will continue to grow. “Kado is where you’ll find everything—from prawns and calamari to lobsters,” he says.
⚡ Power Problems, Local Solutions
Vendors like Suleiman Isah point out that before now, most seafood was imported. But thanks to government encouragement under past administrations, local aquaculture has gained ground. Yet, unstable power and rising electricity tariffs threaten the business, affecting preservation and inflating costs.
“We used to rely on imported stock,” Suleiman explains. “Now we source locally—but we still need light to keep the business alive.”
🛒 In the Homes: Seafood as a Lifestyle
Consumers across Abuja are embracing seafood not only for its taste but also for its health benefits and status.
Rabiatu Umar, a mother of three, says seafood has become a routine part of her family’s meals. “I cook seafood okra or jollof rice with prawns at least twice a week,” she says. “It’s healthy, delicious, and the kids love it.”
For Fatima Muhammad Sabiu, seafood is a non-negotiable five-times-a-week affair. “It’s expensive,” she admits, “but I can’t stop buying it. I get mine from Kado Market or H-Medix.”
🍽️ On the Menu: Restaurants Go Big on Seafood
Popular restaurants across Abuja are not left behind. From Fishermen Soup to paella, seafood dishes are now top-sellers.
- One upscale restaurant has had seafood as its best-selling menu item for over 25 years.
- Seapot Chop House, a seafood-based restaurant, reports rising demand despite rising prices. “We source mainly from Calabar,” says their media manager, “and we invest in refrigeration to ensure freshness.”
- Another eatery reports “lemon ginger prawns” and “seafood spiced soup” as consistent customer favourites.
💰 Pricing Snapshot (as of 2025)
| Seafood Item | Price (₦) |
|---|---|
| Tilapia (1kg) | ₦10,000 |
| Catfish (small) | ₦6,500 |
| Catfish (medium) | ₦7,000 |
| Titus fish (1kg) | ₦7,500 |
| Crocker fish (1kg) | ₦6,500 |
| Panla (frozen) | ₦6,000 |
| Kote fish | ₦5,500 |
| Baby calamari (pack) | ₦9,500 |
| Shrimp (small pack) | ₦7,500 |
| Shrimp (medium pack) | ₦14,000 |
| Prawns (1kg) | ₦18,000 |
Seafood is often viewed as expensive, but its nutritional value, freshness, and versatility justify the cost for many Abuja residents.
🥗 A Nutritional Powerhouse
According to Mrs Nesochi Emenike, a registered dietitian nutritionist:
“Seafood is a complete protein, rich in omega-3s, vitamins D and B12, iodine, and selenium. It supports heart health, reduces metabolic risks, and is highly recommended by the WHO.”
She also warns about excessive intake and mercury exposure, especially from large predatory fish. “Moderation is key, and proper cooking is essential to eliminate health risks.”
🌆 Abuja’s Seafood Future: A Market in Motion
From market stalls to restaurant kitchens, seafood is not just surviving—it’s thriving in Abuja. Despite hurdles like power supply and fluctuating prices, vendors and consumers alike agree: the demand is growing, and so is awareness of its health benefits.
As seafood becomes increasingly normalized in Abuja’s food culture, its presence will continue to grow—offering both a profitable business venture and a nutritious meal option for Nigeria’s capital city.
For more features on food, business, and lifestyle in the FCT, stay tuned to AbujaBusinessNews.com.
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