FARMER-HERDERS CONFLICT AND FOOD SECURITY IN TARABA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the impact of the farmer- herder conflict on food production in Taraba State, with particular emphasis on population displacement, reduction in agricultural output, and land- use disputes. The research was anchored on the Resource Conflict Theory, which posits that persistent lack of access and competition over scarce resources, such as land and water, often leads to the inevitability violent conflict. The study adopted a mixed- method research design, qualitative approaches to obtain comprehensive data and deeper insights into how the conflict affects food production in the study area. The findings revealed that population displacement caused by the conflict disrupted farming cycles, resulting in delayed planting and harvesting, reduced availability of farm labour, and abandonment of farmlands. The study concluded that the farmer- herder conflict in Taraba State has a substantial negative impact on food production, primarily through population displacement, reduced agricultural output, and unresolved land- use disputes. To mitigate these effects, the study recommends the establishment of clearly demarcated grazing reserves, the implementation of conflict resolution and mediation programs, increased support for affected farmers through access to agricultural inputs and extension services, and community- based initiatives to foster dialogue and cooperation between farmers and herders.