Evaluating the Socio-Environmental Impacts of Artisanal Fisheries Decline in Lake Kainji, Niger State

Lake Kainji, created by the Kainji hydroelectric dam on the Niger River, supports one of Nigeria's most significant inland fisheries, sustaining the livelihoods of tens of thousands of artisanal fisherfolk across Niger and Kebbi states. Declining fish catches attributed to hydrological modification, overfishing, and sedimentation are generating cascading socio-environmental consequences. This study evaluates the socio-environmental impacts of artisanal fisheries decline in Lake Kainji using a combination of fisheries data analysis, ecological assessment, and household livelihood surveys. Catch per unit effort data from the Kainji Lake Research Institute spanning 2010 to 2023 are analysed for trend and species composition shifts. Water quality and habitat condition assessments at 20 sampling stations document environmental conditions affecting fish stock productivity. Structured interviews with 200 fisherfolk households assess income changes, occupational shifts, food security, and coping strategies. Results confirm a 41 percent decline in catch per unit effort since 2010, with commercially important species including capitaine and catfish showing the steepest declines. Environmental degradation factors including reduced seasonal flood pulses due to dam operation and sedimentation in productive nursery areas are identified as primary ecological drivers alongside overfishing pressure. Fisherfolk household income has declined by an average of 55 percent in real terms, with household food security deteriorating accordingly. The study recommends ecological flow management protocols for the Kainji Dam, establishment of seasonal fishing exclusion areas, and alternative livelihood investment programmes for affected communities. Keywords: artisanal fisheries, Lake Kainji, socio-environmental impacts, livelihood decline, fisheries management.