CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS OF MARKETING FISH PRODUCT BY FARMERS IN IBAJI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KOGI STATE

The study was conducted to determine "Challenges and Prospects of Marketing Fish Product by Farmers in lbaji Local Government Area of Kogi State ". The objective of the study is to determine the fish farmers sources of information on fish marketing, to find out the relationship that exist between the fish producers and whole sellers and to examine the various channels farmers use in selling their fish products. The research was carried out using a sample size of 16. The main instrument used in data collection was questionnaire. The data collected were analyzed using tables, percentage and linear regression. From the analysis of the data collected, the following findings were made; It was discovered that that significant relationship exist between fish producers and whole seller, that majority of the farmers take their fish to the market or fish buyers shop and that majority are not Satisfied with the challenges as a result of inconsistent purchasing price. From the findings the following recommendations were made, that businesses on the part of government, there should be a centrally controlled Fish Marketing Board or agency fully backed by law to regulate the activities of all marketing agents. Such policy will invariably reduce the sharp practices of middle men. It will also help local farmers to earn substantial income from the sales of Fish. The purchase pricing should be generalized and regulated for better marketing activities. Intervention in the area of fish production is germane in order to improve market potentials for raw fish.