Abstract

This study examined the analysis of socio-economic characteristics and consumers’ perception on fresh and smoked (Clarias and Tilapia species) fish consumption in Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria. A multi-staged random sampling technique was employed in selecting one hundred and fifty (150) respondents; structured questionnaire and scheduled interview were used to obtain data which were analyzed through the use of frequency, percentage, mean score and Chi Square. The results showed that 54.0% were female, 56.7% were married, the mean age was 34 years and #46.819 was the average monthly income. Respondents perceived that fish prices are generally affordable (X ̅ = 2.52) and that fish is not likely to pose health challenge if not killed through poison (X ̅= 2.33). Challenged faced by the respondents in the consumption of fish include price instability (X ̅= 3.20), perish ability (X ̅ = 2.94), inadequate marketing information (X ̅= 2.86) and low product quality (X ̅= 2.73). It is recommended that efforts should be made by Government to increase capital investment in the fishery sector so as to create enable environment for increase in fish production that will make fish to be adequately supplied at an affordable price. It is not only fish farmers that should engage in fish farming, households with backyard spaces can raise fish by constructing ponds, earthen or concrete tanks for small scale fish farming, this will help in making fish to be available for consumption.