Abstract

This study assessed barter system among fish traders around Imakun-Omi, Ogun State, Nigeria. A two-stage sampling procedure elicited both qualitative and quantitative data from six key informants and 60 fish traders within Ajebo market at two consecutive market days. Data on socio-economic characteristics, trading characteristics, commodities exchanged for fish, motivators of barter trading, and challenges facing the barter system were collected using interview guide and checklist (for in-depth interviews with key informants). The data were subjected to descriptive statistics. Results revealed that majority were married (95.0%), female (90.0%), had secondary education (71.7%), fish traders (93.3%), and had household size of 6-10 persons (70.0%). The mean years of trading experience of the participants was 17.48?4.37 years. Money (100.0%) and food commodities (93.3%) were the mediums of exchange used within the market. The most exchanged food commodities were cassava grain (75.0%), plantain (66.7%), and cocoyam (55.0%). Scarcity of some commodities at the market (81.7%), and lack of storage facilities (56.7%) were the most severe challenges facing barter trading in Ajebo market. The study concluded that fish traders within Imakun Omi and environs still practice barter trading. It was recommended that all stakeholders provide adequate storage facilities for farmers and traders engaging in barter system.

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