Abstract: This study assessed sustainability of artisanal fisheries of the fishing communities along Shiroro and Kainji dams, Nigeria. A Questionnaire was used to collect data from 460 fishers. Multi-stage and proportionate sampling techniques were used in selecting the respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. The results of the study showed that most of the fishers (51.3%) were within the age bracket of 29-41years, indicating that respondents were middle aged fishers who were within the active fishing age. Majority (87.0%) of the fishers were married with an average household size of 12 persons. Findings of the study on sustainability of fisheries activities in the study area shows that the fishers agreed that the location of fishing communities is not too remote for any improvement in their livelihoods portfolios ( =2.93, SD=0.76). This was an indication that fishers are optimistic that someday they will be part of rural transformation because of the contributions they are making in terms of provision of fish to local markets. The result further revealed that migration to better and more favourable fishing location ( =2.64, SD=0.70) encouraged the sustainability of artisanal fisheries production. Respondents’ capabilities in maintaining and sustaining fisheries resource base (=2.60, SD=0.52) and effective resolution of conflict ( =2.60, SD=0.78) arising from the use of fisheries resources are evidence of sustainability of artisanal fisheries through co-management system in the area. In the face of fast depleting capture fisheries resources, respondents agreed to remain in fishing business ( =2.50, SD=0.76) implying that artisanal fisheries livelihood account significantly for their household daily disposable income. Daily return from sales of fish caught contributes in meeting the day to day needs of fishers’ households. Low indices for accessibility of fishing communities (=1.83, SD=0.81) and access to credit facilities to support other livelihoods (=1.33, SD=0.62) depict weak physical and financial assets that cannot sustain fisheries production. In conclusion, the study showed that, artisanal fisheries activities is an important livelihood activity in the lives of the fishers as it enhances food security and income of fishers. The study therefore recommended that government should give financial assistance to the fishers to enable them to seamlessly undertake their fishing activities. Fishery extension agents should advise fishers to join associations so as to access credit facilities and other benefits with a view to improving productivity. Government should provide subsidy on fishing inputs such as modern fishing gears to fisher
Keywords:: Sustainability, Artisanal Fisheries, Fishing Communities, Shiroro and Kainji Dams