Analysis of factors influencing access to credit among catfish farmers in rivers state Nigeria

Abstract

The research analysed credit constraints among catfish farmers in Rivers state, Nigeria. The study objectives were achieved using descriptive statistics, probit model and likert scale technique. Primary data was obtained with the use of structured questionnaire from 120 respondents through a two stage sampling procedure. Descriptive statistics from the study showed that majority (63.3%) of the fish farmers were males and 70.0 per cent were not able to access loan. Source of capital for most the farmers were mostly personal savings (81.7%). Results show that gender, age and education were determinants of access to credit among the fish farmers. The farmers identified the absence of extension agent visits, theft of fish and high cost of labour as some of the important challenges hampering their production. The study encourages famers to join farm organisations and also suggests that farmers’ literacy can be enhanced through greater extension outreach in fish farming areas.

Keywords: Access, aquaculture, credit, economy, farmers