Livelihood Diversification of Coastal Artisanal Fishers in Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the level and impacts of livelihood diversification among coastal artisanal fishers in Southwestern Nigeria. Multistage sampling techniques was used to select 366 registered fishers with Agricultural Development Program (ADP). Data were collected using structured interview guide and were subjected to descriptive and inferential analyses. Results revealed that majority of the fishers are married (79.0, 72.1 and 85.0%), male gender (100, 87.2 and 80.0%) and had secondary education (54.0, 40.7 and 32.5%) in Lagos, Ogun and Ondo states. The mean age of the fishers is 35.0±8.55, 39.79±10.57 and 40.34±10.90 years. Majority (81.5 and 46.5%) of the fishers in Lagos and Ogun States are not involved in other livelihood activities. In addition, 15.5, 45.3 and 77.5% are involved in one (1) while 3.0, 8.1 and 6.2% are involved in two (2) livelihood activities across the states. Results on income from fishing activities are 157772.50±114406.35, 82267.44 ±77230.20 and 1145000±104795.16 in Lagos, Ogun and Ondo States while income from non-fishing activities in Lagos, Ogun and Ondo States are 63620.69±37651.99, 52015.63±9220.87 and 21550±7325.20 respectively. The results on impacts of livelihood diversification indicated an increase in fish catch, hired labour, production assets and decreased in family labour. Livelihood diversification index across the three states indicated no significant difference p>0.05 between Ogun and Ondo States. Income from other livelihood strategies can play a significant role in coastal fishers’ livelihood sustainability though at minimal level.