Coping Strategies of Arable Crop Farmers to Pastoralists Activities in Oyo State, Nigeria

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.