Assessment of Aquatic Biodiversity Conservation Challenges in the Fadama Wetlands of Niger State

Fadama wetlands in Niger State, North Central Nigeria, support rich aquatic biodiversity and sustain artisanal fisheries for millions of people, but face escalating threats from agricultural encroachment, seasonal burning, and unregulated fishing. This study assesses the biodiversity conservation challenges in three fadama wetland sites in Lapai, Lavun, and Gbako Local Government Areas through ecological surveys, community consultations, and institutional stakeholder interviews. Fish and macroinvertebrate diversity were assessed using standardised gill net sampling and benthic kick sampling over six months spanning both seasons. Community-based focus groups and interviews with 90 fishers, farmers, and community leaders documented threats and governance arrangements. Results showed that fish species richness ranged from 19 to 28 species across the three sites, with the highest diversity recorded in the least disturbed wetland. Invasive water hyacinth was present at two sites, covering between 15% and 40% of the water surface. Illegal fishing practices, including the use of chemicals and non-biodegradable monofilament nets, were reported at all three sites. No formal wetland management plan existed for any of the surveyed fadama systems. The study identifies weak institutional capacity and absence of formal management frameworks as the root causes of biodiversity loss in Niger State fadama wetlands and recommends the development of community-based conservation agreements with government co-management support as a priority intervention.

Keywords: fadama wetlands, aquatic biodiversity, conservation, Niger State, community management