Top Aba Fishing Countries

The Aba fish (Gymnarchus niloticus), also known as the African knifefish or aba aba, is a large, elongated freshwater species native to the Nile, Niger, and other major river systems in Africa. Renowned for its unique electric navigation abilities and prized as a food source, the Aba is primarily harvested in West and Central African countries, notably Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana, and Cameroon. These nations have established artisanal and small-scale commercial fisheries targeting the Aba, which is valued both for local consumption and regional trade. Nigeria, in particular, stands out as a leading producer due to the abundance of suitable habitats in the Niger and Benue river basins and the fish’s popularity in local cuisine. While the Aba is not as globally traded as some other fish, it holds significant economic and cultural importance in the regions where it is found.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.