Abstract/Summary

There has been a growing interest in studying the impact of conflict on the well-being of affected populations, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and Nigeria. Agricultural livelihoods are especially vulnerable during conflicts, and as the conflict in Nigeria has been ongoing, there is a need to develop evidence-based strategies that can help agricultural households build resilience and improve their livelihood outcomes. This study employs quantitative research methods to investigate the connection between livestock asset holdings, household nutrition, and health in the context of the Nigerian conflict. Three distinct research objectives were achieved using datasets from the Nigeria Living Standards Measurement Study and Armed Conflict Location and Event Data. These objectives are presented in individual chapters, which offer insights into the effects of conflict on livestock assets, nutrition and health, and the scope for building resilience to conflicts. In Chapter II, this study finds that exposure to conflict leads to a reduction in livestock herds and an increase in livestock diversification. The access to agricultural land plays a mitigating role in the negative impact of conflicts on livestock production. Chapter III shows evidence that farmer-herder conflicts have a significant impact on household consumption of animal-source foods, which can be mitigated through livestock diversification. Finally, Chapter IV investigates the association between conflict, livestock assets, and farmers’ mental health. The study highlights the critical role that livestock assets play in promoting the well-being of Nigerian households, regardless of whether they are in conflict or non-conflict situations. Also, while livestock assets are susceptible to conflict risk, they possess dynamic qualities that enable them to mitigate the harmful effects of conflict and aid in building resilience among households. Therefore, advancing conflict-sensitive livestock production practices and strategies is vital for enhancing food security, nutrition, and key health indicators in Nigeria.