The Impact of Climate-Induced Resource Conflicts on Arms Proliferation

Domaine:

peace and securityclimateenvironment and energy

Type de record:

paper

Créateur:

MubMuh

Éditeur:

Pen

Hôte:

Climate change has emerged as a significant driver of resource-based conflicts in many parts of Africa, particularly in regions characterized by environmental vulnerability and weak governance structures. In Northwestern Nigeria, increasing desertification, erratic rainfall patterns, declining agricultural productivity, and shrinking grazing lands have intensified competition over scarce resources, thereby contributing to rising insecurity and the proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALWs). This study examined the impact of climate-induced resource conflicts on arms proliferation in Northwestern Nigeria. Guided by Ecological Theory and Conflict Resolution Theory, the study adopted a qualitative research design. Data were generated through in-depthinterviews with 25 key informants drawn from security agencies, community leaders, academics, civil society actors, and other relevant stakeholders. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that climate-induced resource scarcity has intensified conflicts over land and water resources, creating conditions that encourage the acquisition and circulation of SALWs. The study further found that arms proliferation is reinforced by porous borders and cross-border trafficking networks, poverty and unemployment, political violence and elite manipulation, ethnic and religious tensions, self-defenceinitiatives, and institutional weaknesses within the security architecture. These factors interact to create a cycle in which environmental stress generates conflict, conflict increases demand for weapons, and the widespread availability of weapons further aggravates insecurity. The study concludes that addressing SALW proliferation in Northwestern Nigeria requires an integrated approach that combines strengthened border security, climate-resilient resource management, community-based conflict resolution mechanisms, socioeconomic empowerment programmes, improved governance, and enhanced regional cooperation. Such measures are essential for breaking the cycle of climate-induced violence and promoting sustainable peace and security in the region.

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