Potential Impacts of Climate Change on Livelihood and Food Security of Artisanal Fisherfolks in Lagos State, Nigeria

The artisanal fishery occupies a significant position in the Nigerian economy providing employment for about 5.8% of the Nigerian population and supplying 81.9% of the total domestic fish production. However, climate change is modifying the distribution of fish species with changes in habitat, size, species diversification and productivity. The study, therefore, examined the potential impact of climate change on livelihood and food security of artisanal fisherfolks in Lagos State, Nigeria A stratified sampling technique was used to select 88 fishing communities in Lagos State. A total of 311 respondents were interviewed using structured questionnaire. Data collected include socio-economic characteristics, livelihood parameters, fish species and productivity data while climatic data was obtained from the weather station and meteorology department. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and stochastic frontier catch function analysis. The result of the analysis showed that there were changes in temperature and rainfall pattern which is a deviation from the normal trend. Variation in species diversity and abundance was also observed. There were other sources of livelihood engaged in either as primary or secondary occupation. There is the need to put in place strategies that will mitigate the effect of climate change