FACTORS INFLUENCING MARKET INTEGRATION AND LIVELIHOOD STRATEGIES OF RURAL FISHERMEN IN BAYELSA STATE

The primary objective of this study is to examine the impact of market integration on the economic well-being of rural fishermen in Bayelsa State. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 200 fishermen across various fishing communities. The study employed a quantitative research design, with data analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to identify relationships between market integration and economic outcomes. Key findings indicate that 40% of respondents reported an increase in income levels due to market integration. However, challenges such as high transportation costs, lack of market information, and poor infrastructure were frequently identified as barriers to effective market participation. Based on these findings, the study recommends improving transportation infrastructure, enhancing access to market information, and providing better support for local market integration initiatives to foster economic growth.