Analysis of Worth Assessment of Information Sources and Some Socio-Economic Characteristics of Artisanal Fishers in Niger Delta

Abstract

Worth assessment of information sources of some socio-economic characteristics of artisanal fishers in selected coastal areas of Nigeria was carried out in the coastal States of Bayelsa, Rivers and Akwa Ibom. Data for the study was obtained from well structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were employed. Results showed that income range between ₦11,000 and ₦50,000. The artisans were mostly married people who had fairly large families with an average of two wives. Pressing information needs were: effects of fishing methods, effects of use of explotives to fish, effects of different mesh size, effects of bad fishing practice and water pollution. Others includes: types of materials for boat making, use of safety materials, information on gear maintenance, dangers of rough sea and where to acquire cheap fishing tools. Information on use of different types of fishing gear as well as processing and storage were recorded as not a need. Information worth assessment correlated positively with number of wives and marital status, but negatively with income and number of children. These findings if well managed could make significant contributions to food security, employment generation and multiplier effect on the economy of the Niger Delta.