Land, Livestock and Conflict: An Assessment of Land Use Dynamics and Vegetal Resource Degradation in Nigeria’s Agrarian Crises; the example of the Niger-Benue Trough

Abstract

Nigeria’s Benue Valley region has experienced escalating farmer–pastoralist conflicts in recent years, primarily driven by competition for land and water resources. This study investigates the role of land use/land cover (LULC) changes, particularly the availability of vegetation resources, as a major driver of these conflicts. Using Landsat satellite imagery, the study analyzed LULC changes over a 30-year period, covering the years 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2020.

The results revealed alarming trends in land degradation. Grazing land decreased by 54.86%, while arable land declined by 44.53%. Conversely, grassland increased by 107.54%, and bare land expanded by 549.8%. These changes contribute to environmental degradation, drought, and desertification, potentially forcing pastoralists to migrate southward and intensifying violent conflicts with farming communities. Furthermore, climate change and Nigeria’s growing population exacerbate competition for limited natural resources.

The study highlights the urgent need for sustainable land management practices to address the underlying causes of farmer–pastoralist conflicts. It recommends the development of ranches and grazing reserves, the revival of participatory and mutually beneficial conflict-resolution approaches, large-scale afforestation and reforestation programmes, and proactive government oversight and support to promote peaceful coexistence and sustainable land use.