Integrated Modelling of Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture Systems in Nigeria: Effects of Production Efficiency, Environmental Stressors, Digital Technology Adoption, and Socioeconomic Factors

Abstract

 Fisheries and aquaculture are important to Nigeria’s food security, employment, income generation, and rural livelihoods. However, their sustainability is constrained by inefficient resource utilization, environmental degradation, climate variability, inadequate digital information systems, limited access to finance, and weaknesses in fish value chains. Although Nigerian studies have examined these challenges individually, there is a need for an integrated framework to explain their combined implications for the sustainability of fisheries and aquaculture. This study develops an integrated conceptual model through a thematic review of Nigerian research on artisanal fisheries, aquaculture production, fish nutrition, environmental management, digital technology adoption, extension services, profitability and livelihood diversification. The reviewed literature includes studies on technical efficiency in Kaduna aquaculture farms, artisanal fishing productivity in inland waters, maximum sustainable yield in Rivers Niger and Benue, fish nutrition and physiological responses, environmental pollution in Lagos and Imo States, and digital communication among fish farmers in Kogi and Lagos States. The synthesis identifies four interrelated dimensions of sustainability: production and resource-use efficiency; environmental and climate resilience; digital technology and extension access; and socioeconomic and institutional performance. An integrated conceptual framework is proposed, linking these dimensions to productivity, profitability, ecosystem integrity, food security and livelihood resilience. The study concludes that sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development requires coordinated improvements in production technology, environmental protection, digital extension, institutional support and value-chain infrastructure. The proposed framework provides a foundation for future empirical research and evidence-based fisheries policy in Nigeria.