This field study examined extant aquatic food production and marketing in the three coastal states of Lagos, Ogun, and Ondo before IMTA across 15 Local Government Areas (LGAs)/Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). Marketing mix practices in coastal aquatic food systems were explored through a structured, qualitative assessment using a multi-value chain perspective. Monthly sales volumes most frequently fell within the range of 1–5 tonnes. The local market was dominant, with some sales in the international markets. Respondents asserted that post-harvest processing was diverse, and some were satisfied with the technology available to preserve their products. Cold storage practices across coastal states were hindered by unreliable power supply. Zero-level channel distribution dominated among traders, with over 90% relying on word-of-mouth (WOM) to promote their products. Consumers showed a strong preference for the quality of local products and expressed openness to incorporating seaweed into their purchases. Health benefits, taste, and other reasons for purchase decisions varied significantly across the state χ² (df = 8, n = 300) = 92.39, p < 0.001. These findings provide a baseline for IMTA in Nigeria, highlighting existing strengths, market dynamics, and infrastructure gaps that must be addressed to support sustainable integration.

This field study was conducted as part of efforts to introduce Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) into Nigeria’s aquaculture system. It examined extant aquatic food production and marketing in three coastal states of Lagos, Ogun, and Ondo before IMTA across 15 Local Government Areas (LGAs) /Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). Marketing mix practices in coastal aquatic food systems were explored through a structured, qualitative assessment using a multi-value chain perspective. Monthly sales volumes most frequently fell within the 1–5 tonnes range. The local market was dominant, with some sales into the international markets. Respondents asserted that post-harvest was diverse, and some were satisfied with the technology available to preserve their products. Cold storage practices across coastal states were hindered by unreliable power supply. Zero-channel distribution dominated among traders, with over 90% relying on word-of-mouth (WOM) to promote their products. Consumers show a strong preference for the quality of local products and expressed openness to incorporating seaweeds into their purchases. Health benefits and taste were widely recognized as key motivators for purchasing aquatic food products. Findings provide a baseline for IMTA in Nigeria, highlighting existing strengths, market dynamics, and infrastructure gaps that must be addressed to support sustainable integration.

Artisanal fisheries in Nigeria constitute a critical segment of the nation's socio-economic structure, contributing significantly to food security and local livelihoods. Representing over 60% of domestic fish production, these fisheries employ traditional, small-scale methods that interact dynamically with ecological and socio-economic systems. However, the sustainability of this sector faces numerous challenges, including overfishing, environmental degradation, regulatory gaps, and socio-economic barriers. This review examines the current state of artisanal fisheries in Nigeria, emphasizing the interplay between traditional fishing practices, ecological sustainability, and socio-economic dynamics. It highlights the impacts of climate change, pollution, and competition from industrial fishing on fish stocks and livelihoods. The study advocates for sustainable practices, such as ecosystem-based management, improved governance, and community participation. Drawing on case studies and traditional knowledge, it provides actionable recommendations, including the integration of local practices into policy frameworks, the promotion of co-management systems, and capacity-building initiatives to empower fishers. In order to address these multi-dimensional challenges, the study underscores the importance of sustainable artisanal fisheries for enhancing food security, preserving biodiversity, and fostering socio-economic resilience in Nigeria.

Error in Institutional Review Board Statement and Informed Consent Statement

Small-scale fisheries (SSF) are crucial to the local economy, providing food, income, and employment. However, they face challenges such as inadequate government support, limited fisher involvement in decision-making, and poor conflict resolution mechanisms, which hinder their sustainability and governance. The study examined SSF characteristics and governance challenges in Lagos State, and provide recommendations. The study is significant to inform policymakers and stakeholders on critical areas needing improvement to ensure the sustainability and productivity of small-scale fisheries in Lagos State. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Six fishing communities in Lagos State were sampled (Ibeshe, Moba, Eti Olokun, Ituagan, Ebute Alase, and Yovoyan) with 150 fishers in total randomly sampled in each fishing community. The data were collected through surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions with fishers, community leaders, and government representatives. A total of six FGDs were conducted, one in each of the study communities, with between 6 and 10 participants per session. The approach enabled analysis of both socioeconomic features and governance structures influencing fisheries sustainability. Findings showed uneven income distribution, strong dependence on traditional fishing rites, and fragmented governance frameworks. Limited extension services, scarce access to credit, and weak fisher participation in policy processes were consistent across communities. The study recommends improving credit access, strengthening cooperatives, providing modern gear and training, and creating inclusive governance platforms that integrate both state and community institutions. Strengthening these areas is critical to enhancing the sustainability and resilience of small-scale fisheries in Lagos State.