Journal of Global Agriculture and Ecology

This study examines the impact of insecurity on farmers' quitting propensity and its subsequent implications for food availability in Nigeria. Data were collected from 360 respondents using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis were employed to analyze the data. Regarding insecurity, 44.4% of farmers reported frequent insecurity (occurring more than five times a year), and 72.2% have considered quitting farming because of insecurity. Persistent theft (97.2%) is the majorly responsible for considering quitting, followed by reduced profitability (86.7%) and increased security costs (77.8%). About 41.7% of farmers             report a very serious intention to quit farming. The study reveals significant relationships between insecurity and food availability, with variables like farmer-herder conflict (p = 0.017), climate change (p = 0.032), and banditry (p = 0.002) being statistically significant. Common surviving strategies embraced by farmers include borrowing from financial institutions (62.1%), and adjusting farming schedules (63.9%). The study emphasizes the urgent need for interventions to address the root causes of insecurity, as its consequences extend beyond local farmers. Insecurity disrupts food production systems vital for national food security and economic stability. In a broader context, persistent insecurity not only undermines food availability but also exacerbates instability in the study area, potentially leading to food crises. Policy solutions should prioritize the welfare and stability of agricultural communities, especially in conflict-vulnerable areas.