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

Nigeria’s Benue Valley region has witnessed escalating farmer-pastoralist conflicts in recent years, primarily fueled by competition over land and water resources. This study investigates the role of land use/land cover changes (LULC), particularly vegetal resources as a primary driver of these conflicts. Utilizing Landsat satellite imagery, LULC changes were analyzed for a period spanning 30 years, examining 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2020. Results reveal alarming degradation trends: grazing land decreased by 54.86% and arable land by 44.53%. On the other hand, grasslands increased by 107.54% and bare lands by 549.8%. These changes exacerbate drought and desertification, forcing pastoralists to migrate southward, and leading to violent conflicts. Further, climate change and Nigeria’s growing population exacerbate competition for resources. This study underscores the urgent need for sustainable land management practices. The recommendations aimed at reducing these conflicts and promoting sustainable land use practices include: development of ranches and grazing reserves, revisiting symbiotic participatory conflict resolution approaches, massive afforestation and reforestation projects as well as proactive government oversight and support.