Resource Scarcity and Fulani Herdsmen/Tiv Farmers’ Crisis in Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed at exploring the dynamics of the resource scarcity as it resulted in Fulani herdsmen/Tiv farmers’ crisis in Benue State, Nigeria. Methodology: Descriptive design adopted in this study, depended on judgmental sampling technique. Secondary source of data collection (books, journal articles, monographs, internet materials among others) were sourced from internet and Nigerian libraries. These documentary data were subjected to content validity before analyzed qualitatively into the study. In order to deepen knowledge on Fulani herdsmen/Tiv farmers’ crisis in Benue State, the study adopted group theory as its framework of analysis. Findings: Findings revealed that climate change is the major factor that forced Fulani herdsmen from the Lake Chad Basin to migrate to Benue State; thereby causing resource competition with Tiv farmers. The Fulani herdsmen/Tiv farmers’ crisis has led to security risk, economic loss, humanitarian crisis as well as political division in Benue State. Findings equally revealed that, the federal government of Nigeria has responded to this crisis by proposing various measures, which include Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee, Cattle Colony as well as National Livestock Transformation Plan among others. Regrettably, these measures have not been able to offer lasting solution to the crisis; hence, its impacts continue existing unabated. Recommendation: This study, therefore, recommends wise use of water resource in Lake Chad Basin, reforestation in the northern Nigeria, as well as immediate implementation of Great Green Wall Initiative, as panacea for Fulani herdsmen/Tiv farmers’ crisis in Benue State.