Investigation of gender roles and challenges in the tilapia value chain activities in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract Tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus ) production and distribution play a crucial role in providing essential animal protein and socio-economic benefits that support growth and development in riverine communities. This study examines the tilapia value chain (TVC) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, using a multistage sampling approach. A total of 195 actors were selected, including 3 fish seed producers, 3 feed suppliers, 3 grow-out tilapia farmers, 25 fish processors, 30 wholesalers, 30 retailers, and 101 consumers, with data collected via structured questionnaires. Results show that fish processing is primarily driven by women, with the majority of processors aged between 31 and 40 years. Likewise, fish marketing is predominantly managed by women, most of whom fall within the 41 to 50 age range. A considerable number of processors are members of cooperatives, work part-time, and rely on charcoal for smoking fish. Among fish marketers both wholesalers and retailers, 52.0% fund their businesses through personal savings, and 73.3% source fish directly from farmers. Additionally, 56.7% employ paid labor, and 66.7% operate within local markets. Gender roles are clearly defined along the value chain revealing that women mainly handle pre-processing activities such as washing, descaling, and degutting, while men dominate fish seed production, feed supply, and grow-out tilapia farming. Fish transportation is exclusively undertaken by men, whereas both men and women are involved in fish folding and sticking. Notably, there is no record of farmed tilapia being exported. Key challenges facing the sector include the high cost of processing equipment and fuel/charcoal, poor fish quality, and limited market information, all of which hinder effective fish processing and marketing. Furthermore, the high cost of fish feed remains a major constraint for fish seed producers, feed suppliers, and grow-out farmers.