Appraisal of the Fishing Communities' Means of Subsistence along Shiroro and Kainji Dams, Nigeria

Abstract

This study appraised the Fishing Communities' Means of Subsistence along Shiroro and Kainji Dams, Nigeria. Questionnaire was used to collect data from 460 respondents. Multi-stage and proportionate sampling techniques were used in selecting the respondents. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Livelihood assets mostly possessed by the fishers were access to water body with a mean = 4.66 and access to agricultural land = 3.61. These activities and assets promote efficient fishing and farming activities among the fishers. Coping strategies adopted by the fishers indicated that informed financial planning decisions with a mean =4.61 and diversification into new activities =4.60 were the most adopted coping strategies by the fishers to attain more income for sustained livelihood conditions. In conclusion, the study showed that, artisanal fisheries activity is an important livelihood activity in the lives of the fishers as it enhances food security and income of fishers. The study therefore recommended that Trainings and seminars on livelihood diversification strategies should be provided by private organizations with the necessary support of the government.