Socioeconomic Profile of Fish Farmers in Plateau State

This study developed a socioeconomic profile of fish farmers in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria, to understand the demographic, financial, and operational characteristics that influence aquaculture productivity in the region. Plateau State has emerging potential for aquaculture development due to its cool climate, numerous water bodies, and growing urban fish demand. A total of 115 registered fish farmers were surveyed across five local government areas using structured questionnaires. Variables assessed included age, educational level, primary occupation, farm size, years of experience, access to credit and extension services, and annual production output. Results revealed that the majority of fish farmers (61 percent) were between 30 and 50 years old, with farming as a secondary income source. Educational attainment was moderate, with 43 percent holding tertiary qualifications. Farm sizes were predominantly small-scale, with 78 percent operating fewer than five ponds. Access to government extension services was limited, with only 27 percent of farmers having received advisory visits in the preceding year. Credit access was a significant barrier, with 66 percent relying on personal savings for capital investment. Farmers with secondary and tertiary education demonstrated significantly higher adoption rates of improved practices, including pelleted feed use and water quality monitoring. Average annual yield was 3.2 tonnes per farm, well below the national average for medium-scale operations. The study recommends targeted interventions in rural credit access, extension strengthening, and farmer training to unlock the full aquaculture potential of Plateau State. Keywords: fish farmers, socioeconomic profile, aquaculture, Plateau State, extension services