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Paper short abstract

The complex relationship between pastoralists and farmers in Nigeria has intensified due to shifting migration patterns and evolving policies such as open grazing prohibitions. This study thus advocates for the cultivation of improved fodder that contextualises local solutions.

Paper long abstract

Pastoralist-Farmer relationships have been exacerbated by migration patterns, competition over land and water resources, and evolving policies such as open grazing prohibition; while these dynamics have led to significant socio-economic challenges, including resource depletion and environmental insecurity. While previous studies have highlighted political and legislative drivers, existing interventions overwhelmingly employ top-down strategies that overlook the nuanced perspectives and voices of those directly affected by the crisis. This study thus suggests the implementation of a bottom-up participatory approach that actively involves farmers, herders, extension agents, and government representatives to grow short-cycle nutritious grasses for all year-round fodder supply for the cattle. The cultivation of fodder offers a pathway to constant availability of the scarce resource which is the major driver of the conflict ab-initio. This collaboration of the locals will help to develop sustainable, equitable, and culturally sensitive framework for conflict resolution- moving beyond narratives shaped solely by media or policy. This paper envisaged that local actors and extension agents as agents of change can help to strengthen and transform livelihoods, foster peaceful coexistence and enhance the adaptive resilience of both herding and farming communities.