Dr. Charles Iyangbe takes up role as WorldFish Country Representative in Nigeria
The agricultural development expert is focusing on aquatic food systems.
NIGERIA – Dr. Charles Iyangbe has been appointed as the new Country Representative for WorldFish in Nigeria, taking on the responsibility of advancing research and partnerships to improve fish production in the country.
Announcing his appointment on LinkedIn, Dr. Charles said the focus will be on reshaping Nigeria’s aquatic food systems through collaboration with government, private investors, and development partners.
Nigeria’s annual fish demand is estimated at 3.6 million metric tons, but domestic production accounts for only 31 to 33 percent of this, leaving a substantial supply gap.
According to Iyangbe, the country spends about US$1.2 billion (US$1.2 billion) each year on fish imports to bridge this shortfall.
WorldFish’s work in Nigeria will therefore aim at raising local output, reducing import dependence, strengthening food security, and contributing to the broader economy.
Professional background
Dr. Iyangbe brings more than 25 years of experience in agricultural and economic development across Africa and beyond.
Before joining WorldFish, he worked as Global Business Development Executive at Abt Global, where he directed the firm’s growth agenda in West Africa and pursued new development opportunities.
He also served as Regional Director for Business Development and Signature Program at Heifer International, where he led engagement with funding agencies and partners across Africa.
His career includes over four years with USAID in Nigeria, where he worked as Senior Agriculture Economist managing initiatives in agriculture, trade, food security, and investment.
During that period, he was also the lead for several Feed the Future programs in the country.
Earlier, he spent five years with Catholic Relief Services, where he coordinated projects in agriculture, livelihoods, and economic strengthening.
His track record has positioned him as a key figure in linking research, policy, and market opportunities in African agriculture.
As he assumes his new position, Dr. Iyangbe is expected to guide WorldFish’s strategy in Nigeria with an emphasis on innovation and sustainable growth in the fisheries and aquaculture sector.
The appointment marks a return to the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), where WorldFish is one of the centers working on global food system challenges.
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