The effect of farmer-herder conflicts on agricultural productivity: A case study of Mangu Local Government Area, Plateau State
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Background of the Study
The farmer-herder conflict has emerged as one of the most pressing security challenges in Nigeria, particularly in the middle-belt region, where agriculture is the backbone of the economy. In Mangu Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State, the persistent clashes between farmers and herders have resulted in the destruction of farmlands, loss of lives, and displacement of both farming communities and herders (Bello & Musa, 2023). This conflict, often rooted in competition for land, water resources, and grazing routes, has had a detrimental effect on agricultural productivity, which is crucial for the local economy.
Agriculture remains the primary source of livelihood for the people of Mangu LGA, and any disruption in this sector affects not only the families involved but the broader economy as well. The conflict has led to the destruction of crops, killing of livestock, and abandonment of farmlands by farmers, all of which contribute to a decline in agricultural productivity. The government’s role in mitigating the conflict has been limited, often due to a lack of coordinated strategies and inadequate enforcement of policies aimed at regulating land use and grazing (Ibrahim, 2024). Understanding the link between farmer-herder conflicts and agricultural productivity in Mangu LGA is critical for developing more effective policy interventions that will address both the security concerns and the economic needs of the affected communities.
Statement of the Problem
The ongoing farmer-herder conflict in Mangu LGA has significantly impacted agricultural productivity, a critical component of the local economy. While the conflict is driven by various factors such as climate change, population growth, and weak government policies, its consequences for agriculture are profound. The destruction of crops and livestock, coupled with the disruption of farming activities, has led to food insecurity and economic instability in the area. Despite efforts by the government and local stakeholders to manage the conflict, the lack of a comprehensive solution has led to an escalating cycle of violence and agricultural decline (Osman, 2023).
The central problem this study aims to address is how the farmer-herder conflict in Mangu LGA affects the productivity of local agriculture. The study seeks to analyze how agricultural outputs have declined as a result of the conflict, the socio-economic impacts on the farming and herding communities, and the broader implications for food security in the region. It also explores the effectiveness of existing policies in mitigating the negative effects of the conflict and safeguarding agricultural productivity.
Objectives of the Study
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To examine the relationship between farmer-herder conflicts and agricultural productivity in Mangu LGA.
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To assess the socio-economic impact of the farmer-herder conflict on the communities involved in Mangu LGA.
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To propose recommendations for policy interventions aimed at reducing the negative effects of the conflict on agricultural productivity in Mangu LGA.
Research Questions
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How has the farmer-herder conflict in Mangu LGA impacted agricultural productivity?
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What are the socio-economic consequences of the farmer-herder conflict on farming and herding communities in Mangu LGA?
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What strategies can be employed to mitigate the effects of the conflict and enhance agricultural productivity in the region?
Research Hypotheses
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The farmer-herder conflict in Mangu LGA has a negative impact on agricultural productivity.
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The socio-economic well-being of farmers and herders in Mangu LGA has been significantly affected by the conflict.
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Implementing conflict resolution policies will enhance agricultural productivity and reduce the adverse effects of the farmer-herder conflict in Mangu LGA.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is focused on Mangu LGA in Plateau State, Nigeria, and will investigate the effects of the farmer-herder conflict on agricultural productivity between 2010 and 2025. Limitations include the difficulty in accessing accurate data on the extent of the damage caused by the conflict due to ongoing tensions, as well as the challenge of isolating the effects of the conflict from other factors affecting agricultural productivity.
Definitions of Terms
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Farmer-Herder Conflict: Violent confrontations between farming and pastoralist communities over resources such as land, water, and grazing routes.
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Agricultural Productivity: The output of agricultural goods, measured in terms of crop yields and livestock production, per unit of input in the farming and herding processes.
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Food Insecurity: A condition where individuals or communities lack consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life.
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