THE EFFECTS OF FARMER-HERDER CONFLICTS ON FOOD SECURITY: A STUDY OF NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Farmer-herder conflicts pose a persistent challenge in Nigeria, undermining economic stability, food security, and national peace, particularly in Nasarawa State. This study investigated the factors driving these conflicts and their implications for food security. The research aimed to pinpoint the specific causes of farmer-herder clashes in Nasarawa and analyze their broader effects on food security. The data used in this study was collected from secondary sources, which include textbooks, journals, government documents, and internet materials. It drew upon existing literature and historical context, using resource scarcity theory as a framework to understand the resource-based aspects of the conflict. Findings revealed that crop destruction is the major driver of farmer-herder conflicts, which have resulted in significant loss of life and property, severely impacting farming. This has led to a drastic reduction in agricultural output, intensifying poverty and food insecurity. A crucial discovery was the widespread belief among Nasarawa citizens that herdsmen are attempting to occupy state territories, indicating deeper underlying tensions. To mitigate these issues, the study strongly recommends that the Nasarawa State government develop an effective anti-open grazing law. Such a measure is considered a vital step toward reducing conflict incidence and fostering peace. The study analyses government responses toward addressing the conflict.