ANALYSIS OF FACTORS INFLUENCING ACCESS TO CREDIT AMONG CATFISH FARMERS IN RIVERS STATE NIGERIA

摘要

The research analysed credit constraints among catfish fanners in Rivers state, Nigeria. The study objectives were achieved using descriptive statistics, probit model and likcrt 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 snidy 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 fanners. The farmers identified the absence of extension agent visits, theft of fish and high cost of labour as someof the important challenges hampering their production. The study encourages famers to join farm organisations and also suggests that fanners' literacy can be enhanced through greater extension outreach in fish fanning areas.