Effects Of Farmer-Herder Conflicts On Food Security Among Farming Households In Adamawa State Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of farmer–herder conflicts on food security among farming households in Adamawa State, Nigeria, and assesses the mitigation strategies adopted for managing these conflicts. Using a cross-sectional research design and multistage cluster sampling, data were collected from farming households and analyzed using descriptive statistics, a food security index, and a logistic regression model. The results show that about 63 percent of farming households are food insecure. Empirical findings indicate that cattle rustling, violent confrontation, crop damage by cattle encroachment, and interpersonal clashes significantly reduce the likelihood of household food security. The study identifies seven community-based mitigation strategies predominantly applied to resident (local) herders, including verbal warning, arrest and prosecution, alternative dispute resolution, compensation, relief provision, plot reallocation, and payment for loss of cattle. In addition, a state-led seasonal calendar (date-line) approach regulating harvesting periods and pastoral movement is identified as a complementary preventive strategy targeting migrating herders. While most households perceive these measures as effective, gaps remain in enforcement and institutional coordination. The study concludes that farmer–herder conflicts constitute a major constraint to household food security and recommends institutionalizing the seasonal calendar framework, strengthening community-based conflict resolution mechanisms, and integrating conflict-sensitive land-use planning and agro-pastoral practices to enhance sustainable food security outcomes.