Assessment of Coastal Erosion Impact on Fishing Communities in Lagos State

This study assessed the impact of coastal erosion on fishing livelihoods and community infrastructure in selected coastal fishing communities in Lagos State, South West Nigeria. Coastal erosion is accelerating along the Lagos coastline due to the combined effects of sea level rise, wave action, and anthropogenic modification of the coastal environment, threatening fishing settlement and fishing ground access. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected through structured interviews and focus group discussions with 120 households across three erosion-affected fishing communities: Kuramo, Badagry Beach, and Ilashe. Variables assessed included changes in shoreline position, loss of fishing infrastructure, fishing ground displacement, household income changes, and adaptation strategies. Results showed that all three communities had experienced measurable shoreline retreat over the preceding five years, with Kuramo recording the most severe erosion of approximately 15 metres per year. Fish landing infrastructure, including jetties, storage sheds, and boat yards, had been damaged or lost at two communities. Fishing grounds had shifted further offshore, increasing fuel costs and fishing effort. Average household fisheries income had declined by 31 percent over five years in the most affected community. Adaptive responses included temporary relocation of landing sites, adoption of larger motorised vessels, and diversification into fish trading. Government support for erosion management was reported as inadequate by 91 percent of respondents. The study recommends emergency shoreline protection measures, relocation support for highly vulnerable communities, and integration of coastal fisheries concerns into Lagos State climate adaptation planning. Keywords: coastal erosion, fishing communities, livelihoods, Lagos coastline, climate adaptation