ABSTRACT
The farmer-herder crisis in Nigeria, particularly in Benue State, represents a complex interplay of environmental, socio-economic, and security challenges, threatening both local livelihoods and national stability. As climate change exacerbates land and water scarcity, competition for these essential resources intensifies between farmers and herders, culminating in escalated conflict dynamics. Benue State emerges as one of the epicentres of this crisis, experiencing profound disruptions to its economy and communities. The persistent clashes not only jeopardise food security but also create conducive environments for radicalization and displacement. This research project endeavours to delve into the multifaceted dimensions of the farmer-herder conflicts in Benue State, employing a political ecology perspective to comprehend their underlying causes, dynamics, and implications for human security. By amalgamating historical analyses with present studies, the research underscores the pivotal role of ecological scarcity and livelihood insecurity in driving the conflicts. Through a comprehensive examination, the study elucidates the socio-economic attributes of rural crop farmers and herders, identifies sources of conflict, and evaluates the socioeconomic effects of herder migration on rural development. Furthermore, the research highlights the exacerbating impact of climate change on conflict dynamics, emphasising its role as a catalyst for natural resource conflicts globally. In light of these findings, the research advocates for a holistic approach to addressing the crisis, encompassing sustainable land management practices, robust conflict resolution mechanisms, and inclusive policies catering to the needs of both farmers and herders. Ultimately, the study underscores the imperative of mitigating farmer-herder conflicts to safeguard not only local livelihoods but also national security and sustainable societal progress in Benue State and Nigeria at large.
