Globally, both obligate and opportunistic parasites exert a significant impact on the economic viability, productivity, and sustainability of finfish. Parasitic infestations compromise fish health, reduce growth efficiency, and affect consumer safety, thereby posing major challenges to aquaculture and fisheries-dependent communities. This study aimed to investigate and establish the economic and ecological importance of parasitic infestations in different species of finfish marketed in Kano, Nigeria. A total of 60 samples (30 samples each) of Clarias gariepinus (C. gariepinus) and Oreochromis niloticus (O. niloticus) were indiscriminately purchased from local fish traders at Galadima Fish Market, Kano State. Standard parasitological survey techniques were employed to identify and quantify parasite prevalence across host species. The study revealed a high prevalence (86.7%) of ectoparasites among the examined specimens. The dominant parasites identified included Trichodina spp., Epistylis spp., Eimeria spp. and Chilodonella spp. Parasite diversity and infection rates were influenced by host species, ecological niches, and prevailing environmental conditions. The findings highlight the ecological and economic significance of parasitic infestations in inland finfish species, emphasizing the need for effective fish health management. Strengthening biosecurity measures and improving post-harvest handling practices are crucial for safeguarding food safety, enhancing aquaculture sustainability, and contributing to responsible consumption and production to align with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.