Spatial Analysis of Artisanal Fishing Activity and Resource Depletion in Lake Chad Basin, Borno State

The Lake Chad Basin, straddling Borno State in Nigeria's North East geopolitical zone, has experienced one of the most dramatic lake surface shrinkages globally over the past five decades, with profound consequences for artisanal fisheries that support hundreds of thousands of fishing households across the basin. This study analyses the spatial distribution of artisanal fishing activity and indicators of fish resource depletion in the Nigerian section of the Lake Chad Basin using satellite-derived water body extent data, fish landing records, and community surveys. Lake surface area time series from 2015 to 2023 were generated from Sentinel-2 NDWI analysis to document current lake dynamics and remaining fishing zones. Fish landing data from 18 fishing camps recorded through the Borno State Ministry of Agriculture were used to construct time series catch per unit effort indicators. Structured surveys with 220 active fishers in Kukawa and Abadam LGAs assessed perceived changes in fish abundance, species composition, and fishing effort required for viable daily catches. Results confirm continued lake surface reduction at a rate of approximately 2.3 percent per year within the Nigerian section, compressing fishing zones and increasing competition among fishing households. Catch per unit effort has declined by an estimated 47 percent over the past decade according to fisher testimony and landing records, reflecting both reduced fish habitat extent and overfishing pressure under competitive open-access conditions. Recommendations include the introduction of co-management arrangements, seasonal fishing closures in critical breeding areas, and livelihood diversification support for fishing families. Keywords: Lake Chad, artisanal fishing, resource depletion, Borno State, North East Nigeria.