HOUSEHOLDS' WILLINGNESS TO PAY FOR FISH AS AN ANIMAL PROTEIN IN ILORIN WEST, KWARA STATE

Abstract

Inadequate animal protein intake is a significant nutrition problem in Nigeria, which continues to pose a threat to the nutrition, health, and productivity of households. This study focused on the willingness to pay attitude of fish consumers' households regarding fish as animal protein in Ilorin West Local Government Area, Kwara State, in the face of increasing food prices and economic problems. The study was based on the theory of consumer behaviour, which explains the way households spend their limited income amongst competing needs. The study was designed cross
sectionally, and primary data were collected from 400 households through a structured questionnaire based on the Contingent Valuation Method. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and the Probit regression model. The results indicated that the amount of the first bid, age, income, household size, location, and religion had a significant effect on willingness to pay for fish, while gender and marital status did not have a significant effect. The willingness to pay decreased with higher bid prices, while higher income, household size, and urban residence increased willingness to pay. The willingness decreased with age, and Muslim households had a 
higher willingness than Christian households. The study findings suggest that affordability and socioeconomic factors play an important role in determining willingness to pay for fish. It suggests policies that can stabilise fish prices sustainably.