Socio-Economic Assessment of Fishers, Processors, and Market Dynamics in the River Yobe Fishery Value Chain, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2026-1009-5359Keywords:
Artisanal Fisheries, Socio-Economic Status, Value Chain, Profitability, River Yobe, NigeriaAbstract
The fishery of River Yobe is a critical source of livelihood, protein, and income for communities in northeastern Nigeria. However, the socio-economic conditions of its value chain actors and the system's profitability are poorly documented, hindering targeted development interventions. This study assessed the socio-economic status of fishers in relation to their gear and craft, evaluated processors in relation to their methods, and analyzed the marketing profitability and distribution channels. Data were collected for 18 months from three sites (Mashayan Bade, Usur, Nguru) using structured questionnaires administered to 1,395 fishers, 263 processors, and 354 marketers, alongside observational surveys. Results indicate a predominantly young, male fisher population with low formal education (35.91% with none), relying on personal savings (89.32%) and traditional gears (cast nets, drag nets, gill nets). Processors, including a significant proportion of women (30.04%), primarily use traditional methods (smoking, drying), with all funding sourced from personal savings (83.65%) or friends. Fish marketers operate through informal channels, selling in baskets (75.67%) and directly to consumers (52.47%). Profitability analysis reveals a mean profit margin of approximately ₦2,334 per small carton ("Zarma") and ₦2,083 per large carton ("Gwarzo") after accounting for transportation costs. Key constraints include limited access to capital, obsolete technology, inefficient distribution, and a complete lack of government support or regulation. The study concludes that the River Yobe fishery, while economically viable, operates far below its potential due to structural socio-economic and institutional challenges.
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