Coastal and marine aquaculture in Nigeria: Market dynamics and readiness for integrated multitrophic aquaculture

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the coastal and marine aquaculture market in the key Nigerian states of Lagos, Ogun and Ondo. It is based on a robust mixed-methods approach involving 903 survey respondents (452 fish farmers and 451 fish consumers), 53 key informant interviews (KIIs) and 18 focus group discussions (FGDs). The study identifies a critical misalignment between production and consumption that hinders the sector’s potential. Research reveals that while catfish and tilapia monoculture dominates production, consumer demand is for a greater diversity of species, with a strong preference for the perceived superior quality of wild-caught fish. Key findings indicate that the sector faces significant constraints, primarily high input costs, limited access to finance and inadequate storage infrastructure. These challenges inflate prices and reduce profitability. The market structure is traditional, relying heavily on intermediaries, which limits producers’ market access and margins. Despite these challenges, the study uncovers a remarkable readiness for sustainable innovation and overwhelming stakeholder support for integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA).