AKSU Journal of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development

CLIMATE VULNERABILITY AND INCOME INEQUALITY AMONG BONGA FISHERS IN THE COASTAL COMMUNITIES OF AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

Author:  Elizabeth A. Atairet And Gabriel S. Umoh

Abstract
This study examined bonga fishers’ vulnerability to climate change and inequalities in their income distribution. The data used in the study were collected from 140 fishers through multistage sampling techniques in the Atlantic coast of Nigeria. The instrument for data collection was structured questionnaire; Focus Group Discussion and Key Informant Interview were also conducted. Principal Component Analysis was used to determine the vulnerability of fishers to climate change while Lorenz Curve was employed in assessing income distribution. Findings reveal that bonga fishers are highly vulnerable to the impact of climate change (vulnerability score = 0.680) and Gini Coefficient of 0.85 confirms the coexistence of income inequality with climate vulnerability among bonga fishing population in the study area. Therefore, the study suggests policies reform in the fishing sector, bridge the wide income gaps, and particularly protect fishers from the shock of income variability arising from climate change and variability.