The impact of financial inclusion on the utilization of climate resilience practices among fish farmers in Delta State

 Corresponding author: Theophilus Miebi Gbigbi Copyright © 2025 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0. The impact of financial inclusion on the utilization of climate resilience practices among fish farmers in Delta State Glory Ogochukwu Ndubuokwu and Theophilus Miebi Gbigbi * Department of Agricultural Economics, Delta State University Abraka, Nigeria. GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 Publication history: Received on 05 August 2025; revised on 11 September 2025; accepted on 13 September 2025 Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/gscarr.2025.24.3.0239 Abstract This study investigates the role of financial access in driving the adoption of climate-resilient aquaculture practices among fish farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed to select 240 farmers across three agricultural zones, and data were collected using structured questionnaires. Analytical methods included descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and Likert scale evaluations to examine how financial services influence resilience strategies. Findings reveal marked variation in respondents’ socioeconomic characteristics: 58.3% were male, 75% fell within the 30–49 age range, and 41.7% possessed tertiary education. While 68.8% accessed formal financial services, a significant proportion (33.3%) relied on informal credit sources. Farmers with greater financial access exhibited higher uptake of resilience-enhancing measures, including disease prevention (89.6%), cultivation of climatetolerant fish species (87.5%), and use of climate-resilient feed (79.2%). Adoption also extended to adaptive technologies such as improved pond designs and integrated farming systems. Logistic regression results identified access to credit, savings, financial literacy, and cooperative membership as significant predictors of climate-resilient practice adoption. The analysis underscores that financial access not only facilitates investment in adaptive technologies but also strengthens farmers’ capacity to manage climate-related risks. The study concludes that expanding affordable and accessible financial services particularly credit and savings facilities can substantially enhance climate resilience in aquaculture. Policy interventions should prioritize integrating financial inclusion strategies into climate adaptation programs to improve productivity, safeguard livelihoods, and ensure sustainable fish farming in the face of escalating climate variability. Keywords: Climate-Resilient Aquaculture; Inclusive Rural Finance; Sustainable Fisheries; Digital Financial Services 1. Introduction Aquaculture has emerged as a vital component of global food systems, contributing significantly to food security, nutritional improvement, and rural economic growth. As the global population continues to increase and the demand for animal protein intensifies, aquaculture has become the fastest growing food production sector, now accounting for over half of global fish consumption (FAO, 2022). This rapid expansion has been instrumental in mitigating the depletion of wild fish stocks caused by overfishing and environmental degradation (Boyd et al., 2022). Beyond its role in supplying essential protein, aquaculture serves as a strategic tool for alleviating malnutrition and poverty, particularly in developing nations where access to nutrient-rich foods remains inadequate (Belton et al., 2022). By simultaneously creating income opportunities and improving diets, it is increasingly recognized as a sector with strong potential to address hunger and economic hardship. In Africa, the aquaculture sector holds considerable promise for transforming rural economies and improving food availability. However, its growth potential is undermined by persistent challenges. Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation, is experiencing escalating food insecurity driven by climate change, rapid urban expansion, and environmental GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 123 degradation. Despite abundant water resources and favorable climatic conditions for aquaculture, production systems remain largely traditional and low input, making them highly susceptible to climate-related shocks. Vulnerabilities such as flooding, erratic rainfall, and salinity fluctuations reduce production efficiency and threaten the livelihoods of farming households dependent on aquaculture for both food and income. These limitations point to a clear need for systemic adaptation strategies to secure the future of the sector. Climate change represents one of the most pressing threats to aquaculture globally, with pronounced impacts in developing countries where smallholder fish farmers often lack the resources and institutional support to cope. Rising water temperatures affect fish growth rates, feed conversion efficiency, and oxygen utilization (Reid et al., 2021), thereby increasing production risks, operational costs, and mortality rates. Extreme weather events such as floods and droughts disrupt water supply, destroy infrastructure, and interrupt production cycles. These shocks not only undermine profitability but also weaken the resilience of farming households, particularly those operating at subsistence or semi-commercial scales. Without targeted adaptation measures, these climate stressors may accelerate the decline of vulnerable aquaculture systems. In addition to temperature and weather extremes, aquaculture faces other climate-induced pressures, including water salinization and freshwater scarcity, especially in coastal zones. Sea level rise and saltwater intrusion threaten freshwater sources, while ocean acidification disrupts shellfish production and degrades marine ecosystems (Clements and Chopin, 2021). The cumulative effect of these stressors underscores the urgency of adopting climate-smart aquaculture practices designed to sustain production while enhancing environmental sustainability and economic viability. Central to the adoption of these practices is the availability and accessibility of financial services. Financial access enables farmers to acquire adaptive technologies, invest in improved infrastructure, and adopt resilient fish breeds. Credit facilities, savings mechanisms, insurance products, and digital payment systems all serve as critical enablers of adaptation (World Bank, 2022). For instance, credit can fund automated feeding systems or water quality monitoring equipment, while savings and mobile banking improve liquidity management, allowing farmers to better absorb income fluctuations (Pham et al., 2022). Likewise, microinsurance products tailored for aquaculture provide a safety net against climate-induced losses, enabling farmers to recover faster and sustain long-term investments (Khan et al., 2023). Despite the recognized importance of financial services in strengthening climate resilience, the specific relationship between financial accessibility and the adoption of climate-smart aquaculture practices remains underexplored, particularly in ecologically fragile and economically disadvantaged areas. In Nigeria, many smallholder fish farmers face significant barriers to accessing finance, including high transaction costs, limited awareness, and low trust in formal financial institutions. This limits their ability to invest in adaptive solutions, leaving them exposed to increasing climate variability and production risks. Addressing these constraints is essential to unlocking the sector’s potential and safeguarding its contributions to food security and livelihoods. This study seeks to fill this research gap by applying a climate resilience framework to assess how financial accessibility influences the adoption of climate-smart aquaculture practices among fish farming households in Delta State, Nigeria. By examining the socioeconomic characteristics of farmers, the level of financial accessibility, and the extent of adoption of adaptive practices, the study aims to generate evidence that can inform policy and guide interventions by governments, development partners, and financial institutions. The findings will contribute to strategies that enhance food security, stabilize rural incomes, and promote sustainable aquaculture in climate vulnerable regions. Specifically, the objectives are to: • Describe the socioeconomic characteristics of fish farmers • Examine the level of financial accessibility among fish farmers • Assess climate smart aquaculture practices in relation to financial accessibility • Determine the extent of adoption of climate smart practices among fish farmers • Analyze the relationship between financial accessibility and the adoption of climate smart approaches among fish farmers. 2. Materials and Method This study was conducted in Delta State, Nigeria, focusing on selected local government areas (LGAs) within the three agricultural zones where aquaculture is most prevalent. A multi-stage sampling method was employed to ensure a representative sample of aquaculture practitioners across the state. Initially, two LGAs were purposively selected from GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 124 each agricultural zone based on the intensity of fish farming and the environmental vulnerability of the areas. Subsequently, four aquaculture settlements were randomly chosen within each LGA. From each settlement, ten fish farmers were randomly selected, resulting in a total sample size of 240 respondents. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire designed to capture both quantitative and qualitative information on aquaculture practices, financial inclusion, and climate adaptation strategies. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. 2.1. Model Specification The binary logistic regression model used to examine the determinants of climate resilience among fish farmers is specified as: Logit(Pi)=𝐼𝑛(𝑃𝑖 1−𝑃𝑖)=β0+β1X1+β2X2+β3X3+β4X4+β5X5+β6X6+β7X7+β8X8+β9X9+β10X10+β11X11+β12X12+β13X1 3+β14X14+β15X15+εi Where: Pi= Probability that the ith fish farmer adopts at least one climate-resilient approaches. 𝐼𝑛(𝑃𝑖 1−𝑃𝑖)=The log odds of adopting climate-resilient approaches. β0= Intercept term. β1 to β15= Coefficients of the explanatory variables. εi= Error term. • X1 = Credit accessibility (1 = Yes, 0 = No) • X2 = Loan amount (Sum of loan disbursed in Naira) • X3 = Ownership of bank account (1 = Yes, 0 = No) • X4 = Utilization of mobile banking (1 = Yes, 0 = No) • X5 = Engagement in financial literacy training (1 = Yes, 0 = No) • X6 = Availability of savings or insurance services (1 = Yes, 0 = No) • X7 = Ownership of land (1 = Affirmative, 0 = Negative) • X8 = Pond dimensions (Stocking capacity; quantity of fish introduced) • X9 = Cooperative membership (1 = Yes, 0 = No) • X10 = Availability of storage facilities (1 = Yes, 0 = No) • X11 =Gender, with 1 representing female and 0 representing male. • X12 = Age (in years) • X13 =the level of education, quantified by the number of years of formal schooling completed. • X14 = Income level (monthly or annual income expressed in Naira) • X15 = Years of experience in aquaculture 3. Results and Discussion 3.1. Socioeconomic characteristics of Aquaculture Practitioners 3.1.1. Gender The gender reveals that 58.3% of fish farmers are male, while 41.7% are female, highlighting a male-dominated aquaculture sector, which mirrors traditional gender patterns in many agricultural industries. However, the significant 41.7% female participation indicates a positive shift towards greater gender inclusion in aquaculture. This trend could empower women, potentially improving both productivity and sustainability in the sector. Financial inclusion is key to empowering women by providing them with access to resources, enhancing their economic participation, and strengthening community resilience against climate change (Eze and Alugbuo, 2021). Therefore, initiatives to improve financial inclusion for female fish farmers are crucial in bridging the gender gap in aquaculture. The lack of access to resources like loans, particularly for women, underscores the barriers to achieving gender equality in the sector (A et al., 2022). The predominance of men in aquaculture aligns with studies showing that women are often relegated to postharvest roles, such as marketing, rather than engaging in farming activities (Adam et al., 2025). Therefore, improving women's financial inclusion is essential for boosting sustainability and productivity in aquaculture. This global male dominance is reflected in research showing that women's roles are frequently limited to post-harvest tasks rather than active farming (Omeje et al., 2021). GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 125 3.1.2. Age The age distribution reveals that a significant 75% of fish farmers are between the ages of 30 and 49, with 25% in the 20 to 29 age group. This indicates that the aquaculture sector is predominantly youthful, characterized by energetic and dynamic individuals who are well-positioned to drive change and innovation within the industry. Younger farmers, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, tend to be more adaptable to new technologies and contemporary farming methods. This adaptability makes them more likely to embrace climate-resilient technologies, which are crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of aquaculture in the face of climate change. The enthusiasm and willingness of younger farmers to experiment with new techniques can lead to greater adoption of sustainable practices and innovations that improve productivity and resilience. Furthermore, the active involvement of younger individuals in the sector can accelerate the transition toward more technologically advanced and sustainable practices, which are essential for the future of aquaculture (Bello et al., 2022). As these younger farmers continue to grow and develop within the sector, they are likely to play a pivotal role in the evolution of the industry, ensuring its resilience and capacity to adapt to the challenges posed by climate change. 3.1.3. Marital Status A significant 62.5% of fish farmers are married, followed by 20.8% who are single, and 16.6% who are divorced or widowed. This indicates that family-oriented farming enterprises dominate the sector. Family labour plays a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity and resource efficiency, facilitating long-term investments in sustainability. The marital status of farmers influences their decision-making and resource accessibility, which in turn affects their engagement in climate-resilient practices (Onoh et al., 2023). In contrast, Southwest Nigeria aquaculture sectors see a higher proportion of single individuals, influenced by labour migration to urban areas for economic opportunities (Segun, 2024). These findings highlight the need for policies that account for family dynamics in aquaculture development. 3.1.4. Educational level A large portion of respondents, 41.7%, have completed tertiary education, followed by 33.3% with secondary education. These higher education levels are associated with the adoption of modern agricultural practices and increased productivity (Eze and Alugbuo, 2021). However, 16.7% of farmers have only primary education, and 8.3% have no formal education. Such individuals may face challenges in accessing the skills and technologies necessary to improve fish farming. Higher education enables farmers to adopt innovative techniques, manage their enterprises more efficiently, and respond to market demands, thus enhancing sustainability. Financial literacy education is also essential in improving farmers' ability to interact with financial services and implement climate-resilient practices (Edeminam and Abdullahi, 2022). 3.1.5. Income Level Most farmers (33.3%) earn between ₦50,000 and ₦100,000 monthly, followed by 25% who earn between ₦100,001 and ₦150,000. Only 12.5% earn over ₦200,000. These figures suggest that while aquaculture provides a steady income, the earnings are relatively modest, limiting farmers’ ability to invest in climate resilience (Kazeem and Nurudeen, 2023). Wealthier farmers (12.5%) are better positioned to adopt climate adaptation strategies, but financial constraints for the majority of farmers may hinder their ability to do so. These earnings also reflect the profitability challenges in aquaculture, with factors like high production costs and fluctuating market prices limiting financial success (Gomna and Mamman 2020). Studies show that farmers who implement climate adaptation strategies tend to achieve better financial outcomes, improving household income and food security (Ibrahim et al., 2022). 3.1.6. Fishing Experience The majority of farmers (41.7%) have been in fish farming for 1–5 years, indicating a relatively young industry in the region. The 33.3% with 6–10 years of experience possess valuable knowledge that could be beneficial for adopting climate-resilient practices (Omeje et al., 2021). More experienced farmers can serve as mentors to less experienced farmers, fostering knowledge transfer and resilience in the sector. Experience plays a critical role in shaping farming practices, particularly as established farmers can leverage their knowledge to adapt to emerging challenges more effectively. Global trends suggest that regions with a higher concentration of experienced farmers tend to have better production outcomes due to the utilization of historical knowledge and practiced techniques ((Issa et al., 2022). Policies should focus on capacity building for both new and seasoned farmers to ensure adaptability to climate challenges. GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 126 Table 1 Socioeconomic Characteristics of Fish Farmers Variable Category Frequency Percentage (%) Gender Male 140 58.3 Female 100 41.7 Age Group (years) 20–29 60 25.0 30–39 70 29.2 40–49 60 25 50–59 30 12.5 60 and above 20 8.3 Marital Status Single 50 20.8 Married 150 62.5 Divorced 20 8.3 Widowed 20 8.3 Educational Level No formal education 20 8.3 Primary school 40 16.7 Secondary school 80 33.3 Tertiary education 100 41.7 Monthly Income from Fish Farming (₦) Below 50,000 40 16.7 50,000–100,000 80 33.3 100,001–150,000 60 25 150,001–200,000 30 12.5 Above 200,000 30 12.5 Years in Fish Farming Less than 1 year 20 8.3 1–5 years 100 41.7 6–10 years 80 33.3 More than 10 years 40 16.7 Source: Field Survey, (2024) 3.2. Level of Financial Inclusion among Fish Farmers 3.2.1. Access to Financial Services About 68.8% of fish farmers have access to financial services, connecting them to formal or informal institutions for loans, savings, or insurance. This access is essential for managing risks and investing in business growth (Aluge and Gbigbi, 2024). However, 31.2% lack access to such services, which limits their ability to accumulate capital and hinder productivity. The reliance on informal channels, such as money lenders, often leads to higher interest rates and fewer protections, limiting the potential for growth. Expanding financial inclusion through mobile banking and microfinance services could address these gaps and boost economic resilience. 3.2.2. Main Sources of Finance The majority of fish farmers (33.3%) rely on informal money lenders for financial support, followed by 27.1% using cooperatives and 22.9% accessing microfinance banks. Informal lenders are attractive due to quick and flexible loans but come with risks such as high-interest rates (Adjasi and Torku, 2021). Microfinance institutions and cooperatives offer alternatives but face challenges like limited funding and inefficiencies. Only 4.2% of farmers rely on commercial GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 127 banks, reflecting the difficulties in accessing formal credit due to high collateral requirements (Okpukpara and Odurukwe et al., 2021). Policies should focus on enhancing access to formal credit for fish farmers, ensuring that microfinance and cooperative institutions can support small-scale farmers effectively. 3.2.3. Frequency of Interaction with Financial Institutions About 37.5% of fish farmers report interacting with financial institutions on a monthly basis, while 33.3% engage with them only rarely. This indicates that although financial services are available, a significant portion of the farming community does not utilize these services consistently. The infrequent engagement may be linked to factors such as limited financial literacy or a lack of trust in formal financial systems. Many farmers may not fully understand how to navigate financial products, or they may have had negative experiences with financial institutions in the past, leading to reluctance in using these services regularly. To improve the situation, financial institutions could consider offering products that are specifically designed to meet the seasonal and cyclical needs of farmers, such as microloans or seasonal credit lines. Additionally, providing easier access through digital platforms could enhance convenience, especially in rural areas where physical access to banks may be limited. By integrating digital banking services and focusing on the unique needs of farmers, financial institutions could encourage more frequent interactions, helping to bridge the gap between farmers and formal financial services. 3.2.4. Savings Account Ownership Approximately 60.4% of fish farmers own a savings account, suggesting that a significant portion of the farming community engages with formal financial institutions. This high level of ownership indicates a growing trust and reliance on formal savings methods. However, 39.6% of farmers still do not have savings accounts, which may be due to various factors, including a lack of trust in financial systems, the high transaction costs associated with maintaining an account, or a preference for informal savings practices, such as saving in cash or through community-based saving groups. The absence of savings accounts among nearly 40% of fish farmers restricts their ability to build financial security and access capital for reinvestment in their farming operations. To address this issue, financial institutions should work to reduce barriers to savings account ownership. This could involve lowering maintenance costs, offering more accessible account types with flexible terms, and increasing awareness of the benefits of saving within formal systems. Tailoring account features to match the income cycles and financial practices of farmers could increase the adoption of savings accounts, providing farmers with greater financial stability and access to capital for growth and development. 3.2.5. Loan Amount Received Approximately 38.1% of farmers receive loans of under ₦50,000, while 33.3% receive loans between ₦50,000 and ₦100,000, and 28.6% obtain loans greater than ₦100,000. The majority of loans being small suggests that fish farmers tend to address immediate financial needs such as purchasing feed or repairing equipment. These smaller loans are often used to manage day-to-day operations rather than for long-term investments. The relatively low loan amounts highlight the financial constraints that many farmers face, limiting their ability to invest in larger-scale improvements or innovations within their farming operations. The limited access to larger loans points to a need for more flexible financial products that can support long-term growth. Larger loans, which could be used for investments in production capacity, new technologies, or infrastructure improvements, remain less accessible to many fish farmers. To address this gap, financial institutions could design loan products that require lower collateral, offer longer repayment terms, and are tailored to the specific needs of farmers aiming to expand or modernize their operations. Providing better access to larger loans would enable farmers to invest in their businesses and ultimately enhance their productivity and profitability. 3.2.6. Most Used Financial Services Approximately 50% of fish farmers utilize savings services, followed by 20.8% who access loans, 12.5% who use payment services, and 10.4% who rely on insurance. The predominant use of savings services suggests that farmers prioritize setting aside funds for essential farming needs such as feed, equipment, and emergencies. This focus on saving highlights the importance placed on managing immediate financial needs and ensuring liquidity for day-to-day operations. However, the lower uptake of loans and insurance indicates that many farmers are not fully utilizing other financial services that could help them expand and protect their businesses. The relatively low engagement with loans and insurance suggests a significant gap in the use of available financial tools, which could otherwise support business growth and enhance financial resilience. Increasing access to credit and insurance could help farmers mitigate risks associated with climate change, fluctuating market prices, and other uncertainties. To address this gap, efforts to improve financial literacy and expand access to these services are crucial. By educating farmers on the benefits of loans GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 128 and insurance, financial institutions can empower them to make better use of these tools, ultimately improving their ability to cope with financial and climate-related challenges. 3.2.7. Awareness of Financial Programs The finding that 54.2% of farmers are aware of existing financial programs while 45.8% are not highlights a significant gap in access to essential information. This gap suggests that nearly half of the farmers in the study may be missing out on financial opportunities that could help improve their farming practices. The lack of awareness could be attributed to several factors, including insufficient outreach by financial institutions, low trust in formal institutions, and communication barriers, such as language or geographic isolation. These factors hinder the effective dissemination of information about financial programs, preventing farmers from fully benefiting from the support available to them. The limited awareness of these programs also suggests that farmers are not taking full advantage of financial tools that could assist with risk management, investment in technology, or expansion of their operations. The implications of this finding are significant, as it points to a critical barrier to agricultural development: the lack of access to necessary financial resources. Without proper awareness, farmers are unable to tap into financial products like loans, grants, or insurance, which could improve their economic stability and resilience. 3.2.8. Use of Digital Financial Services The finding that only 37.5% of fish farmers use digital financial services, such as mobile banking, while 62.5% do not, reveals a significant gap in financial inclusion, particularly in rural areas. This low adoption rate of digital financial services suggests that many farmers are unable to benefit from the conveniences and opportunities that mobile banking offers, such as easier access to credit, savings, and payment systems. The limited usage of these services is likely driven by several factors, including low digital literacy, poor internet connectivity, and the lack of smartphones among a substantial portion of the farming population. These barriers prevent farmers from accessing digital platforms that could simplify their financial management and enhance their overall productivity. The implications of this gap are farreaching. Without access to digital financial services, farmers miss out on the efficiency, security, and flexibility that these tools offer, limiting their financial inclusion and growth potential. This situation underscores the importance of targeted investments in infrastructure, such as improving internet access and providing affordable smartphones, to enable farmers to take full advantage of mobile banking. 3.2.9. Access to Financial Literacy Training The study revealed that 35.4% of fish farmers have received financial literacy training, while 64.6% have not. This indicates a significant gap in financial education among farmers, which could limit their ability to make informed financial decisions. Financial literacy is crucial for managing key aspects of farming finance, such as borrowing, saving, and risk management. The low percentage of farmers who have received training suggests that many are underutilizing financial products like loans, savings accounts, and insurance, which could otherwise support the growth and stability of their farming operations. Without the necessary skills to navigate these services, farmers may miss out on opportunities that could help improve their productivity and resilience. The implications of this finding are significant, as the lack of financial literacy could lead to poor financial decision-making, which may hinder farmers' ability to manage debt, optimize savings, or protect their assets with insurance. To address this issue, providing targeted financial literacy training is essential. These programs should be tailored to the specific needs of farmers, focusing on practical skills that will enable them to make better use of financial products and services. By improving financial literacy, farmers can enhance their financial management skills, making more informed decisions and ultimately improving their financial stability. This, in turn, can promote sustainable growth in the agricultural sector, enabling farmers to better manage risks and take advantage of opportunities for expansion and development. 3.2.10. Perception of Financial Inclusion’s Impact on Farming Approximately 66.7% of fish farmers believe that financial inclusion positively impacts their farming operations, highlighting a strong perception that access to financial services can lead to increased productivity, income stability, and long-term growth. This result underscores the recognition among a majority of farmers that financial inclusion plays a crucial role in improving their ability to invest in their farms, manage risks, and enhance the overall quality of their operations. The positive perception suggests that farmers are aware of the potential benefits of having access to financial services, such as loans, savings accounts, and insurance, which can support them in navigating financial challenges and boosting farm productivity. However, despite the optimistic view, 33.3% of farmers do not perceive financial inclusion as beneficial to their farming operations, which points to existing barriers in accessing and effectively utilizing financial services. These challenges could include factors such as high interest rates, inadequate financial products tailored to farmers’ needs, or lack of trust in financial institutions. The implication is that while financial inclusion has significant potential, more work is needed to ensure that the benefits reach all farmers. Improving the GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 129 design of financial products, expanding infrastructure, and offering targeted financial education are essential to ensure that farmers can fully leverage financial services to improve their livelihoods. By addressing these gaps, financial inclusion can play a pivotal role in boosting the productivity and sustainability of the agricultural sector. Table 2 Level of Financial Inclusion among Fish Farmers Financial Inclusion Indicators Frequency Percentage (%) Access to Financial Services Yes 165 68.80 No 75 31.20 Main sources of finance Commercial Banks 10 4.20 Microfinance Banks 55 22.90 Cooperatives 65 27.10 NGOs 30 12.50 Informal Money Lenders 80 33.30 Frequency of Interaction with Financial Institutions Daily 20 8.30 Weekly 50 20.80 Monthly 90 37.50 Rarely 80 33.30 Savings Account Ownership Yes 145 60.40 No 95 39.60 Loan Amount Received Below ₦50,000 91 37.92 ₦50,000–₦100,000 80 33.33 Above ₦100,000 69 28.75 Most Used Financial Services Savings 120 50.00 Loans 50 20.80 Insurance 25 10.40 Payments 30 12.50 Others 15 6.30 Awareness of Financial Programs Yes 130 54.20 No 110 45.80 Use of Digital Financial Services (e.g., Mobile Banking) Yes 90 37.50 No 150 62.50 GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 130 Access to Financial Literacy Training Yes 85 35.40 No 155 64.60 Perception of Financial Inclusion’s Impact on Farming Yes 160 66.70 No 80 33.30 Source: Field Survey, (2024) 3.3. Climate Resilience Practices by Financial Access Financial access is a key determinant in the successful adoption of climate resilience strategies by fish farmers. Farmers with access to credit, savings, and insurance are more likely to invest in practices that improve the sustainability and adaptability of their operations (Table 3) 3.3.1. Combine Fish Farming with Crop Farming The integration of fish farming with crop farming is a highly effective strategy for enhancing resilience to climate change. A significant 72.9% of financially included fish farmers employ this strategy, recognizing the value of diversifying their income streams. By combining these two farming activities, farmers can optimize resource use, such as water and nutrients, and mitigate the risks associated with extreme weather events. This approach allows for better resource management, as fish pond water can be used for crop irrigation, and nutrient cycling between the two farming systems can enhance soil fertility. Financial access plays a vital role in enabling farmers to invest in the necessary infrastructure, training, and technical support needed for successful implementation. However, for farmers without financial access, the ability to integrate fish farming with crop farming is often limited. These farmers face challenges such as land constraints and insufficient capital, which prevent them from adopting integrated farming systems. Without financial resources, farmers may continue to rely on monoculture practices, which increase their vulnerability to climate variability and reduce the sustainability of their farming operations. Financial inclusion can play a critical role in overcoming these barriers by providing access to credit and technical support, enabling farmers to diversify their farming practices and enhance their climate resilience. 3.3.2. Select Climate-Resilient Fish Species Selecting climate-resilient fish species is a commonly adopted resilience strategy among financially included fish farmers, with 87.5% of farmers opting for species such as tilapia and catfish, which are better equipped to withstand climate change-related stressors, such as temperature fluctuations and poor water quality. These species are particularly well-suited to the changing environmental conditions of aquaculture farms, enhancing productivity, sustainability, and long-term profitability. Financial resources play a critical role in enabling farmers to purchase highquality, genetically improved fingerlings from reputable sources, thus improving their chances of success and making their farms more resilient to climate-related stresses. In contrast, farmers without financial access often rely on locally available fish breeds, which are typically lower in quality and less adaptable to changing environmental conditions. As Aladetohun et al (2024) indicate, these farmers face a greater risk of poor growth rates, disease outbreaks, and other issues associated with suboptimal fish stock. The lack of financial access limits their ability to purchase better-quality fish breeds and invest in the necessary infrastructure to ensure their success. To support these farmers, policymakers could implement financial assistance programs, such as subsidies for hatcheries or low-interest loans, to increase access to climate-resilient fish species and improve the sustainability of their operations. 3.3.3. Design Ponds with Flood/Drought Resilience Features Designing ponds with flood and drought resilience features is essential for mitigating the impacts of climate change. Approximately 68.8% of financially included fish farmers invest in modifying their ponds by deepening them, reinforcing embankments, or installing drainage systems to withstand extreme weather events such as floods and droughts. These modifications help ensure that fish farms remain operational even under adverse weather conditions, protecting the farmers' investments and contributing to long-term sustainability. Access to financial resources allows farmers to make these crucial infrastructure investments, which might otherwise be unaffordable for those without financial support. For farmers without financial access, implementing such resilience features can be particularly challenging. Without the necessary capital, they may rely on less effective, temporary solutions, such as using manual water diversion techniques during floods. Although these methods can provide short-term relief, they do not offer the long-term security needed to protect aquaculture operations from future climate-related risks. Financial institutions GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 137 against losses caused by climate disasters. These financial tools are essential for helping farmers manage risks and invest in climate adaptation measures. Despite their importance, challenges such as affordability and the complexity of insurance products prevent many farmers from fully utilizing them. Financial institutions must simplify savings products and offer affordable microinsurance options to help farmers better manage risks and enhance their resilience to climate shocks. 3.5.6. Land Ownership and Utilization of Climate Resilience Strategies Landowners are 1.54 times more likely to utilize climate resilience strategies compared to non-landowners. Land ownership motivates farmers to invest in long-term environmental sustainability through practices such as water conservation and soil management. While land ownership is important, promoting secure land tenure and cooperative land-use models can offer similar incentives for farmers who do not own land. Policies that ensure land tenure security and encourage sustainable land management practices can greatly enhance farmers' capacity to adapt to climate change and improve overall climate resilience. 3.5.7. Pond Size (Stocking Capacity) and Climate Resilience Utilization Larger pond sizes or higher stocking capacities increase the likelihood of utilizing climate resilience strategies by 1.47 times. Larger operations tend to have more financial resources, allowing for investments in technologies such as climate-resilient fish species and improved irrigation systems. These resources help larger farms adapt to climaterelated risks, improving their sustainability. However, small-scale farms also require support systems to enhance their resilience. By providing financial assistance and technical support, small-scale farmers can adopt effective climate resilience strategies, ensuring that the entire aquaculture sector is capable of withstanding climate challenges. 3.5.8. Belonging to a Cooperative and Climate Resilience Utilization Being a member of a cooperative increases the likelihood of utilizing climate resilience strategies by 1.68 times. Cooperatives offer a platform for collective action, resource-sharing, and mutual support, which are essential for implementing climate adaptation measures. Membership in cooperatives enables farmers to access shared resources, training, and financial assistance, improving their capacity to adopt climate-smart practices. However, the effectiveness of cooperatives depends on their governance and organizational structures. Strengthening management and integrating climate-smart training can enhance their ability to support members' adaptation efforts, ultimately improving resilience within farming communities. 3.5.9. Access to Storage Facilities and Climate Resilience Access to storage facilities increases the likelihood of utilizing climate resilience strategies by 1.37 times. Storage facilities help preserve fish products and other resources vulnerable to climate impacts, reducing post-harvest losses and allowing better resource management during periods of scarcity. However, limitations such as unreliable energy supply and inadequate infrastructure can hinder the effectiveness of these facilities. Improving storage infrastructure and ensuring reliable energy sources for cold storage systems are essential for enhancing farmers' ability to store fish and reduce financial losses during extreme weather events. 3.5.10. Gender and Climate Resilience Utilization Women are 1.45 times more likely to utilize climate resilience strategies than men. Women play a central role in resource management, particularly in rural areas where they are responsible for food production, water management, and household welfare. Gender-sensitive approaches to climate adaptation are crucial to ensuring that women have the resources, support, and decision-making power necessary to drive climate resilience. Addressing financial access barriers, such as discriminatory lending practices and limited land rights, is essential to empowering women in agriculture and enabling their contributions to climate adaptation efforts. 3.5.11. Education Level and Climate Resilience Utilization Higher education levels increase the likelihood of utilizing climate resilience strategies by 1.31 times. Educated individuals have a better understanding of climate change and are more likely to adopt sustainable practices. Education enables farmers to assess climate risks and choose the best adaptation strategies. To enhance resilience, educational programs should blend theoretical knowledge with hands-on training, allowing farmers to implement climate-smart practices that contribute to long-term sustainability. This combination ensures that farmers not only understand the risks but also have the skills to take proactive steps to adapt. GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 138 3.5.12. Monthly Income and Climate Resilience Utilization Higher monthly incomes make individuals 1.60 times more likely to utilize climate resilience strategies. Wealthier individuals have more financial flexibility to invest in climate adaptation measures such as insurance, infrastructure upgrades, and new technologies. This increased financial capacity allows them to take proactive steps to mitigate climate risks. However, the emphasis should not solely be on income generation; awareness of climate risks must also be raised among higher-income households, ensuring that financial advantages are utilized effectively to implement climate adaptation strategies. A broad-based culture of adaptation across all income levels is essential for ensuring resilience in farming communities. 3.5.13. Years in Fish Farming and Climate Resilience Utilization Each additional year spent in fish farming increases the likelihood of utilizing climate resilience strategies by 1.04 times. Experienced farmers are more likely to recognize the impacts of climate change and adopt resilience practices based on their observations of environmental changes. While experience plays a vital role in implementing climate-resilient strategies, younger farmers tend to be more open to adopting new technologies. Encouraging intergenerational knowledge exchange can help integrate traditional farming practices with modern innovations, fostering resilience across all age demographics in the aquaculture sector. This approach will ensure that both experienced and younger farmers contribute to climate adaptation efforts. Table 5 Determinants of Financial Inclusion on the Utilization of Climate Resilience Strategies Variable Coefficient (β) Std. Error P-Value Exp(β) (OddsRatio) Significance Level Financial Inclusion Factors Access to Credit 0.956 0.267 0.000*** 2.602 Significant Bank Account Ownership 0.872 0.295 0.003** 2.392 Significant Use of Mobile Banking 0.732 0.247 0.003** 2.080 Significant Financial Literacy Training 0.598 0.185 0.001** 1.818 Significant Access to Savings 0.671 0.228 0.003** 1.957 Significant Access to Insurance 0.641 0.132 0.038** 1.404 Significant Moderating Variables Land Ownership 0.429 0.171 0.012** 1.536 Significant Pond Size (Stocking Capacity) 0.387 0.177 0.029** 1.473 Significant Belonging to a Cooperative 0.521 0.203 0.010** 1.684 Significant Access to Storage Facilities 0.314 0.158 0.047** 1.369 Significant Gender 0.501 0.114 0.003** 1.452 Significant Age 0.009 0.007 0.102 1.009 Not Significant Education Level 0.268 0.102 0.008** 1.308 Significant Monthly Income 0.402 0.112 0.009** 1.602 Significant Years in Fish Farming 0.142 0.018 0.002** 1.043 Significant Model Summary Log-Likelihood -102.35 LR Chi-Square (χ2) 78.21 Prob > Chi-Square 0.001 Pseudo R-Square (McFadden's R2) 0.303 Number of Observations 240 GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 24(03), 122-141 139 Overall Model Prediction Accuracy 80.50% Notes: p < 0.01 (Highly Significant **), p < 0.05 (Significant *), p > 0.05 (Not Significant); Odds ratio > 1 suggests an increased likelihood of utilizing climate resilience strategies; Odds ratio < 1 suggests a decreased likelihood of utilization. 3.6. Implications for Research and Practice This work offers significant insights into the correlation between financial inclusion and climate resilience, thereby deepening our comprehension of how availability of financial services influences fish farming methods. The results offer vital advice for formulating targeted policies and practices that can enhance fish output via enhanced financial services. By mitigating financial obstacles and advocating resilience techniques, these policies can facilitate sustainable aquaculture advancement. The study's findings are crucial for informing future initiatives designed to improve financial inclusion and climate adaptation within the fishing sector. 4. Conclusion This study presents persuasive evidence that financial inclusion is crucial for improving climate resilience measures among fish producers in Delta State, Nigeria. The results indicate that fish farmers who have access to financial services, including loans, savings, and insurance, are more inclined to implement climate risk management approaches, such as illness prevention, the selection of climate-resilient fish species, and the utilization of climate-resilient feed. Moreover, access to financial services enables farmers to invest in technologies like improved pond designs and integrated farming systems, thereby enhancing their adaptability to climate concerns. The study identifies multiple obstacles to extensive democratization of finance, including restricted access to official financial services, inadequate financial literacy, and dependence on informal lenders. Notwithstanding these obstacles, the relationship between financial inclusion and the implementation of climate resilience techniques is substantial, indicating that enhanced availability of financial services can significantly augment farmers' capacity to endure climate-related adversities. The key factors influencing the adoption of climate risk management approaches encompass access to credit, ownership of bank accounts, utilization of mobile banking, financial literacy education, availability of savings, access to insurance, land ownership, pond size (stocking capacity), membership in cooperatives, access to storage facilities, gender, educational attainment, monthly income, and experience in fish farming. The variables exert a statistically significant influence on the adoption of climate resilience techniques, underscoring that elements such as availability of financial services, land ownership, cooperative participation, and educational attainment are essential for advancing the implementation of climate-resilient practices. Measures that facilitate access to financial and structural resources are crucial for bolstering the resilience of fish farmers. Enhancing financial services, elevating financial literacy, and promoting cooperative frameworks will substantially bolster the sustainability and resilience of aquaculture amid climate change. Compliance with ethical standards Disclosure of conflict of interest No conflict of interest to be disclosed. Statement of informed consent Informed consent was obtained from all individual participants included in the study. References [1] Adekola, S. A., Aluko, O. A., and Adeola, T. M. (2022). 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