Traditional Ruler Restates Support for State's New Fishing Licence Scheme

The paramount ruler of Wakirike Kingdom has publicly backed a new state fishing licence scheme, aimed at regulating trawler activity and protecting the livelihoods of small-scale canoe fishermen.

Under the scheme, all commercial vessels above a certain size must register and observe seasonal no-fishing zones. Canoe fishermen using traditional methods are exempt.

'This is about making sure our grandchildren still have fish in these waters,' the ruler said at a stakeholders' forum attended by fishing union leaders.