Abstract
<p>The study assessed information seeking behaviour of fisherfolk with mobile phone in fishing communities around Kainji Lake basin, Nigeria. Primary data was generated through interview schedule from 165 respondents and analysed with descriptive and factor analysis. Result revealed that mobile phone improved information seeking behaviour of fisherfolk with associates in the fishing communities than with outsiders in government establishment. Kinds of information sought with mobile phone cut across economic, social and health issues in fish market, social gathering, fish catch/gear, health, weather and security related matters. Pattern of information seeking revealed regular use of close associates than extension workers. Close associates mostly contacted with mobile phone for information were fellow fisherfolk (64.2%), family members (64.8%) and community members (55.8%) but weak with fisheries institute (4.8%) and extension agents (0.6%). Fisherfolk rated voice call as the most effective medium in information seeking over flashing, SMS, voice message, video and pictures. Result of factor analysis categorised the challenges into poor financial status, inadequate knowledge and skill, poor network services and lack of energy to recharge mobile phone batteries. It is recommended that extension providers should use the established effective medium and pattern of information behaviour to package and disseminate messages to meet needs of fisherfolk in the lake basin. Interim measure is to provide tool free mobile lines to improve contact and trust to strengthen rapport. Also, mobile network operators should reduce tariff, improve quality of services as well as incorporate training in their social responsibility and promotion strategies for fishing communities to benefit.</p>
Highlights
Information has emerged as one of the topmost resources needed for successful economic activities in combination with labour, capital, knowledge, and infrastructures
Market information sought was on fish demand, price, supply and new markets whereas financial information sought was on loan, bank alerts and debtors for payment
The finding exposes the diversity of information needs as well as the pattern of information packages for fisherfolk in the riverine community to improve their economic, health and social activities in the area
Summary
Information has emerged as one of the topmost resources needed for successful economic activities in combination with labour, capital, knowledge, and infrastructures. Fisherfolk that derive their livelihood in artisanal fishery is among those in need of high quality information to take informed decision to work smarter and intelligently. Quality information should be credible, relevant, accurate and timely to add value to knowledge in decision process. In this regard, Solano et al (2003) made known that throughout the phases of the decision-making process, farmers prefer different information sources for problem detection, seeking for problem solutions, seeking for new practices and seeking for opinion
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