IMPACT OF BANDITRY ON FOOD SECURITY IN KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA

JOSEPH EMMANUEL; MAGAJI ISHAKU; FRANCIS OLAJIRE AWODOYIN

Authors

JOSEPH EMMANUEL Center for Peace and Security Studies, Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Nigeria Author
MAGAJI ISHAKU Center for Peace and Security Studies, Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Nigeria Author
FRANCIS OLAJIRE AWODOYIN, Ph.D. Department of Education Foundation, Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Nigeria Author

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of banditry on food security in Katsina State, Nigeria. The objectives were to examine the patterns and trends of banditry attacks over the past five years and assess their effects on agricultural production, food availability, accessibility, utilization, and rural market systems. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The population comprised farmers, community leaders, agricultural officers, and security personnel across selected affected Local Government Areas. Using multi-stage sampling techniques, 400 respondents were selected for the quantitative aspect, while data for the qualitative aspect were collected through Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) involving 24 participants. Structured questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data, which were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and means), while qualitative data were thematically analyzed. Findings revealed an increasing trend of banditry in Katsina State, particularly in areas such as Batsari, Safana, Faskari, and Jibia. Banditry led to widespread displacement of rural dwellers, destruction of farmlands, and loss of livestock, severely affecting crop and animal production. Quantitative results showed a decline in food output and rising food prices. KIIs and FGDs supported this by reporting increased fear among farmers, abandonment of farmlands, and poor market access due to insecurity. The study concluded that banditry poses a significant threat to food security in Katsina State, undermining livelihoods, disrupting food systems, and exacerbating poverty and malnutrition in rural communities. It was recommended that the government intensify rural security operations, support displaced farmers with inputs and extension services, strengthen community policing, and restore food supply chains through infrastructure and market rehabilitation.