Effectiveness of Information Sources on Livelihood of Artisanal Fisherfolk in Inland Fishing Communities in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was carried out to examine the effectiveness of information sources on livelihood of artisanal fisherfolk in inland fishing communities in Delta State, Nigeria. Data were collected from 169 respondents randomly selected through face to face interview with semi-structured questionnaire. Collected data were analysed and presented using descriptive statistical tools, mainly frequency distribution and percentage. The study revealed that fisherfolk make better use of close associates in fishing business and community as information sources compared to public extension agency owned by State government and mass media. Major sources of information used by the fisherfolk were friends (97.0%), neighbours (96.4%), relatives (92.3%) and town criers (80.4%). Only friends, relatives and town criers showed relative effectiveness in terms of clarity of message and adequate content compared to timely contact found to be low in all the information sources on livelihood of fisherfolk in the area. It is recommended that increase extension contact and introduction of modern communication facilities in extension delivery services to fisherfolk in inland fishing communities will improve access and timely usage of messages to enhance livelihood.