Analysis of Fisheries Contribution to the Economy of Coastal Communities in Delta State

This study analysed the economic contribution of fisheries to the livelihoods of coastal communities in Delta State, South South Nigeria. Despite the dominance of the oil sector in Delta State, fisheries remain the primary source of income for a substantial proportion of the rural coastal population. A survey was conducted in six fishing communities across the Warri South West and Burutu local government areas using structured questionnaires administered to 150 fishing households. Economic data collected included annual income from fishing and fish trading, employment categories, dependence on fisheries income, and market linkages. Results indicated that fisheries contributed between 55 and 80 percent of total household income among sampled respondents. Women played a dominant role in the marketing and smoking of fish, accounting for 67 percent of fish trading activity. The study found that fishers with access to motorised canoes earned 2.4 times more than those using non-motorised vessels. Market price volatility, seasonal catch fluctuations, and oil pollution of fishing grounds were identified as the most significant economic threats. Only 22 percent of respondents had access to microfinance or government fisheries credit schemes. The study recommends the expansion of fisheries credit programmes, investment in fish landing infrastructure, and pollution remediation in degraded fishing grounds to enhance the economic sustainability of coastal fisheries communities in Delta State. Keywords: fisheries economy, coastal communities, artisanal fishing, household income, Delta State