Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Aquaculture is a rapidly growing sector in the global food industry, contributing significantly to food security and economic development. Site selection for aquaculture development is a critical step that can greatly influence the success and sustainability of aquaculture operations. In the coastal areas of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, there is a pressing need to identify suitable sites for aquaculture development to harness the region's aquatic resources effectively. This research project focuses on the application of Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques to site selection for aquaculture development in the coastal local government areas of Akwa Ibom State. GIS provides a powerful tool for analyzing spatial data and identifying suitable sites based on multiple criteria such as water quality, proximity to markets, accessibility, and environmental sustainability. The study area covers the coastal local government areas of Akwa Ibom State, including Eket, Ibeno, and Oron, which are known for their rich aquatic resources and potential for aquaculture development. Data on water quality, bathymetry, land use, proximity to markets, and other relevant factors will be collected and integrated into a GIS database for analysis. Through spatial analysis and modeling in GIS, potential sites for aquaculture development will be identified based on predefined criteria and constraints. Multi-criteria decision analysis techniques will be employed to prioritize and rank the suitability of different sites for aquaculture development. The outcomes of this research will provide valuable information to policymakers, investors, and stakeholders involved in aquaculture development in the coastal areas of Akwa Ibom State. By utilizing GIS techniques, this study aims to facilitate informed decision-making and sustainable development of aquaculture in the region. Overall, this research project seeks to demonstrate the effectiveness of GIS in site selection for aquaculture development and contribute to the sustainable utilization of coastal resources in Akwa Ibom State. The findings and recommendations from this study are expected to inform future planning and investment in the aquaculture sector, ultimately enhancing food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability in the region.

Thesis Overview

Application of gis technique to site selection for aquaculture development in the coastal local government areas of akwa ibom state