Water Hyacinth and fish production in Nigeria: Community Perceptions, Ecological and Economic Impacts, and Willingness to Fund Control

Abstract

Nigeria’s aquaculture sector, vital for food security and rural livelihoods, is increasingly threatened by the unchecked spread of water hyacinth. This study applied a mixed-methods approach, combining 22 key informant interviews (KIIs), field observations, informal interviews, and a survey of 454 fish farmers to assess its impacts and farmers’ willingness to support control measures. Results show widespread recognition of negative effects, including reduced fish catch, poor water quality, damaged infrastructure, with strong community demand for intervention. On average, households are willing to contribute ₦2492 (USD 1.51) per month for 20 years to finance control measures. Econometric analysis indicates that willingness to pay (WTP) is shaped by the interaction of income and education, as well as gender and regional differences, rather than income alone. While education moderates income to increase WTP, the education–income interaction negatively affects participation. Notably, these contrasting effects on participation (negative) and WTP (positive) can be understood through the lens of collective action theory. These findings emphasize the need to integrate community perceptions with economic valuation to design inclusive and regionally tailored control strategies, strengthening resilience in Nigeria’s aquaculture sector.