Coping Strategies of Arable Crop Farmers to Pastoralists Activities in Oyo State, Nigeria
Adebiyi Yemisi Blessing *
Department of Agricultural Extension and Communication Technology, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 704, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Okunlola J.O
Department of Agricultural Extension and Communication Technology, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 704, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Conflicts between arable crop farmers and pastoralists threaten agricultural production and rural livelihoods in Oyo State, Nigeria. This study surveyed 160 farmers from four conflict-prone Local Government Areas to examine coping strategies against pastoralist activities. Results showed most farmers were male, married, economically active, with small farms and limited access to extension services. Major disruptions included farmland grazing, crop destruction, bush burning, and water pollution. Farmers coped through dialogue with pastoralists (94.4%), partial fencing (93.4%), early harvesting (89.4%), planting restraining crops (68.1%), livelihood diversification (96.3%), and farming on multiple plots (94.4%). Sustainable mitigation measures recommended include improving extension services, access to credit and insurance, clear land-use policies, community conflict resolution committees, organized grazing routes, and sensitization on peaceful coexistence. Chi-square analysis indicated significant links (p < 0.05) between socio-economic characteristics and coping strategies, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Keywords: Crop farmers, pastoralists, coping strategies, conflict, Oyo State and agriculture