EFFECT OF ARTISANAL FISHER'S VULNERABILITY TO CLIMATE CHANGE ON LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION IN FISHING COMMUNITIES AROUND LEKKI LAGOON LAGOS STATE

ABSTRACT Artisanal fishing in Lagos State is a critical economic activity that supports the livelihoods of numerous coastal communities. However, these communities face significant challenges, including environmental degradation, fluctuating fish stocks, economic instability, and social vulnerabilities, all of which threaten the sustainability of their livelihoods. This study assesses the impact of artisanal fishers' vulnerability to climate change on livelihood diversification in fishing communities around Lekki Lagoon, Lagos State, Nigeria The research explores the socio-economic characteristics of artisanal fishers, their livelihood activities, and the extent of their vulnerability to climate change. It also examines the coping strategies employed by these fishers during periods of heightened vulnerability and the extent to which they have diversified their livelihoods as a means of enhancing resilience and reducing dependence on a single source of income. Findings indicate that environmental degradation-manifested through -pollution, habitat destruction, and limate change-directly affects artisanal fishers by diminishing fish habitats and reducing catch yields. In esponse, livelihood diversification has emerged as a crucial coping mechanism, allowing fishers to spread sks and improve their overall well-being. However, the effectiveness of these diversification efforts is fluenced by various socio-economic and contextual factors. The study concludes that while livelihood versification is essential for enhancing the resilience of artisanal fishers in Lagos State, its success depends a comprehensive understanding of the vulnerabilities posed by climate change and the factors that uence diversification choices. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders ing to support the sustainability of artisanal fishing through targeted interventions that address both rorimental challenges and socio-economic needs