FISH PROCESSING

Environmental pollution from fish processing activities is a critical issue in Nigeria, especially in urban areas such as Benin City, where the rapid growth of artisanal fish processing contributes to environmental degradation. The purpose of this study was to examine the role of stakeholder participation in managing environmental pollution resulting from fish processing activities in Benin City, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. Data were collected from 80 respondents, including fish processors, market association leaders, community leaders, waste disposal service providers, and local government officers within the study area. A structured questionnaire served as the main instrument for data collection. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, means, and standard deviations. The findings were presented in tables and figures for clarity and proper interpretation. Findings revealed that fish processing sites generate multiple waste types, including fish scales (82%), waste water (91%), packaging waste (74%), oil/fat residues (76%), and ash (69%), most of which are disposed of through open dumping, burning, or drainage channels. Key stakeholders identified include waste service providers, NGOs, community leaders, market associations, and environmental officers. However, stakeholder participation was found to be only moderately effective, limited by inadequate coordination, poor enforcement, and insufficient waste infrastructure. The study concludes that sustainable waste management in fish processing requires strong institutional collaboration, participatory governance, improved policy enforcement, and enhanced environmental education to promote cleaner and safer fish processing practices in Benin City.