Survey of Fish Landing Sites and Post-Harvest Losses along the Niger River in Kogi State

Post-harvest fish losses represent a major economic burden for artisanal fishers along the Niger River corridor in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria. This study conducts a structured survey of fish landing sites, marketing chains, and post-harvest loss patterns across five landing sites in Lokoja and Ibaji Local Government Areas. Data were collected from 120 fishers and fish traders through structured questionnaires and direct observation over a three-month period. Parameters assessed included fish handling practices, preservation methods, transportation infrastructure, storage facilities, and estimated percentage losses by weight. Results showed that sun-drying and smoking were the dominant preservation methods employed, with 78% of fishers relying on these techniques. Post-harvest losses were estimated at 22 to 35% of total landing weight, primarily attributed to inadequate cold chain infrastructure, delayed processing, and poor handling during transport. The majority of landing sites lacked potable water, concrete landing platforms, and organised waste disposal systems. Women constituted 74% of fish traders at surveyed sites and reported higher vulnerability to losses due to limited access to preservation equipment. The study documents the infrastructure and knowledge gaps contributing to post-harvest losses in Kogi State artisanal fisheries and recommends targeted investments in solar-powered ice-making facilities and extension training programmes as priority interventions for loss reduction along the Niger River corridor.

Keywords: post-harvest losses, fish landing sites, artisanal fisheries, Niger River, Kogi State