Farmer/Herder Conflict and The State and Non- State Actors Responses in Plateau State

Farmer–herder conflict remains a persistent security, socioeconomic, and humanitarian challenge in Plateau State, Nigeria. This study examined the nature and dynamics of the conflict, the key state and non-state actors involved, and the strategies employed in managing it. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with structured questionnaires administered to 400 respondents across six purposively selected Local Government Areas Jos South, Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Bokkos, and Riyom. A total of 396 valid questionnaires were returned, representing a 99% response rate, and the data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviations. Findings revealed that competition over land resources, crop damage by cattle, proliferation of small arms and light weapons, environmental pressures, ethnic and religious differences, cattle rustling, and historical grievances were major dimensions of the conflict, with significant consequences including loss of lives, livelihoods, and displacement. Traditional rulers and community leaders were perceived as the most prominent actors in conflict mediation, while federal security agencies, farmers' and herders' associations, government institutions, NGOs, and faith-based organisations also played important roles. Overall, conflict-management strategies recorded a moderate assessment, with cattle ranches or grazing reserves, military intervention, and peace-building initiatives receiving relatively favourable ratings, while weaknesses were identified in land-use law implementation, inter-actor coordination, community participation, and overall improvement in the conflict situation. The study concludes that sustainable management of farmer–herder conflict requires stronger coordination among state and non-state actors, improved land-use governance, greater community participation, effective early-warning mechanisms, and integrated approaches that address both the immediate security threats and underlying causes of the conflict.