Climate Change and Emerging Conflict Between Herders and Farmers in Nasarawa and Plateau States, Nigeria

Abstract

In recent times, climate change has become the focus of global attention due to its effects on both developed and developing countries. Developing countries in particular lack capacity to address its adverse impacts on people and the environment. In northern Nigeria, the limited green vegetation has gradually disappeared, rendering it difficult for rural dwellers such as Fulani herders, who are mainly Muslim, to find pasture for their livestock. This has led to a massive movement of the herders and their cattle to southern Nigeria which is rich in vegetation and dominated by Christians. This is regarded as an invasion by local farmers, whose farm crops are being consumed by the cattle. It has engendered violent conflict, resulting in the destruction of lives and property. Drawing on the existing literature, this chapter explores the effects of climate change on Fulani herders and their movement patterns. It examines the root causes and nature of the conflict between farmers and herders and assesses its effect on the state, society and the economy, with a view to offering sustainable recommendations for its resolution.