The Impact of Insecurity on Food Security Sustainability in Nigerian Economy From 1986-2022
Abstract
This study examined the multifaceted connection between food security and insecurity in Nigeria using a quantitative survey research design. A well-crafted questionnaire was carefully created and sent to 120 respondents who were active in the agricultural industry in different capacities. The study sought to understand how Nigerian insecurity changed over time, with a focus on the agricultural sector, and to analyse the wider economic effects on the sustainability of food security. The organised questionnaire was used to collect data, giving researchers a thorough basis for comprehending the opinions and experiences of the participants. The statistical software package SPSS27, which is renowned for its adaptability in managing a range of analytical procedures, was utilised to methodically show and analyse the responses. The one-sample t-test was utilised to test hypotheses developed to investigate the effects of insecurity on the agricultural sector and its contributions to sustainable food security, with a critical table value of 2.92 at a 5% level of significance. The results showed that the agricultural sector has been significantly impacted by the evolution of insecurity, with respondents expressing concerns about the problems and disruptions that the sector is facing. Participants also recognised the intricate and varied aspects of Nigerian insecurity, with some observing improvements in the security landscape over time. The study concluded that, despite in the agriculture sector, insecurity still presents serious obstacles with far-reaching economic ramifications that affect the sustainability of food security. Suggestions were made, highlighting the necessity of a multidimensional strategy to handle the intricate relationship between food security and insecurity. To sum up, this research provides insightful information about the complex relationships between food security and insecurity in Nigeria. The utilisation of SPSS27 for statistical analysis in conjunction with a quantitative survey research design gave a strong foundation for the examination and interpretation of the results. The hypotheses that were formulated were supported by the t-test results, which illuminated the complex effects of insecurity on the agricultural sector and its subsequent consequences for the sustainability of food security. To address difficulties at the nexus of food security and insecurity in Nigeria, the study makes recommendations for comprehensive ways to minimise the obstacles that have been discovered. This serves as a platform for future research and policy considerations.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background to the Study
Nigeria often hailed as the “Giant of Africa,” has faced a persistent challenge that has not only threatened its socio-political stability but also undermined its economic prosperity. The nexus between insecurity and food security has been a recurrent issue in the nation’s narrative. Over the years, the country has grappled with various forms of insecurity, ranging from insurgency and communal clashes to kidnapping and banditry. The repercussions of these security challenges extend beyond the immediate humanitarian crisis, impacting the very core of the Nigerian economy (Dioume, 2021; Emmanuel, 2022; European Commission, 2021).
The Nigerian economy, marked by its dependence on agriculture as a key sector, has been significantly affected by the prevailing insecurity. The period from 1986 to 2022 stands witness to a complex interplay between insecurity and the sustainability of food security. The impact is particularly evident in the disruptions caused by groups like Boko Haram, as highlighted by Emmanuel (2022). The terror war waged by Boko Haram has not only claimed countless lives but has also led to food scarcity, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the Nigerian population. The threat posed by Boko Haram to the nation’s food security is a poignant illustration of how insecurity can directly undermine the foundations of a stable and prosperous economy.
In the context of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, the insecurities extend beyond insurgency alone. Communal clashes, as discussed by Eme et al. (2022), contribute to a volatile environment, disrupting farming activities and displacing communities. This disruption not only jeopardizes the livelihoods of farmers but also leads to a decline in agricultural productivity. Such disruptions have a cascading effect on the entire food supply chain, from production to distribution. The consequences are felt not only by the farmers directly affected but also by the broader population, leading to increased food prices and decreased accessibility. These repercussions extend to both rural and urban areas, affecting the overall food security of the nation (Eme et al., 2022; European Commission, 2021).
The years 1986 to 2022 have seen an intricate relationship between insecurity and the sustainability of food security in Nigeria. Kidnapping and banditry have emerged as significant security challenges during this period. The work of Nayak (2020) sheds light on the effects of these criminal activities on the Nigerian economy. The insecurity created by kidnapping and banditry not only disrupts agricultural activities but also hinders the transportation of goods, leading to food shortages in various regions. Farmers and traders become hesitant to engage in economic activities, fearing for their safety. This fear permeates through the entire food supply chain, resulting in a reduction in agricultural output and an increase in food prices. Consequently, achieving food security becomes a monumental task in an environment plagued by criminal activities (Nayak, 2020; European Commission, 2021).
In addressing the challenge of insecurity and its impact on food security, it is essential to consider the theoretical frameworks that help analyze and understand this complex relationship. The Integrated Food Security Strategy for South Africa (IFSS) provides a theoretical foundation for comprehending the multi-dimensional aspects of food security. While IFSS is specific to South Africa, its principles and frameworks can be adapted to the Nigerian context. The strategy emphasizes the need for a holistic approach that considers not only food production but also factors such as market access, stability, and resilience of food systems (IFSS, 2022).
Empirical reviews further emphasize the gravity of the situation. Studies conducted by Otekunrin et al. (2021) reveal the prevalence and drivers of food insecurity in rural Nigeria. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions that address the specific challenges faced by different regions. Additionally, research by Amolegbe et al. (2021) emphasizes the role of volatile food prices in exacerbating household food insecurity. This highlights the interconnectedness of economic factors with security concerns and food access.
Despite the rich agricultural potential of Nigeria, achieving sustainable food security remains elusive due to persistent insecurity challenges. As the nation navigates through the intricate interplay between security and food sustainability, it becomes imperative to bridge the gap in the literature. Existing studies provide valuable insights, but there is a need for more comprehensive research that explores the nuanced dynamics of insecurity and its varied impacts on different regions and communities. Understanding these nuances is essential for crafting targeted policies that address the specific challenges faced by diverse segments of the population (Otekunrin et al., 2021; Amolegbe et al., 2021).
Statement of Problem
Despite being the “Giant of Africa,” Nigeria faces a critical challenge at the intersection of insecurity and food security, a complex issue that has far-reaching implications for the nation’s stability and economic prosperity (Dioume, 2021; Emmanuel, 2022). While existing research sheds light on the multifaceted nature of this challenge, significant gaps remain, demanding further exploration to comprehensively address the problem.
One notable gap in the current literature pertains to a nuanced understanding of the regional variations in the impact of insecurity on food security. Existing studies provide valuable insights into the nationwide consequences of insecurity, but fail to adequately dissect how different regions within Nigeria are uniquely affected. Regional disparities, whether in the prevalence of specific security threats or the resilience of local food systems, are crucial aspects that demand a more granular examination (Otekunrin et al., 2021). Understanding these nuances is imperative for crafting targeted policies that account for the diverse challenges faced by distinct segments of the population.
Furthermore, while research has highlighted the macroeconomic implications of insecurity on agricultural productivity and food supply chains, there is a dearth of studies exploring the microeconomic impacts on individual households. Amolegbe et al. (2021) stress the importance of volatile food prices in exacerbating household food insecurity, yet there remains a need for deeper insights into how individual families are coping with and adapting to these challenges. This microeconomic perspective is essential for formulating interventions that directly address the needs of vulnerable households.
The temporal aspect is another dimension that warrants attention. The existing literature offers snapshots of the impact of insecurity on food security, but a longitudinal analysis spanning the entire period from 1986 to 2022 is lacking. Such an analysis could reveal evolving patterns, enabling a more robust understanding of the changing dynamics and long-term consequences of insecurity on the nation’s food sustainability (European Commission, 2021).
In essence, the statement of the problem identifies critical gaps in the current understanding of the relationship between insecurity and food security in Nigeria. These gaps include the need for a more nuanced regional analysis, a microeconomic examination of household impacts, and a longitudinal perspective to capture the evolving dynamics over time. Filling these gaps is essential for developing targeted policies that address the specific challenges faced by diverse segments of the population and steering Nigeria towards a more secure and food-sustainable future.
Objectives of the Study
This study had three specific objectives:
- To assess the historical evolution of insecurity in Nigeria from 1986 to 2022.
- To analyze the impact of insecurity on the agricultural sector and its contribution to food security sustainability.
- To propose policy recommendations aimed at addressing the challenges posed by insecurity to food security in the Nigerian economy.
Research Questions
To guide the research process, the following research questions were formulated:
- How has insecurity evolved in Nigeria from 1986 to 2022?
- What are the specific ways in which insecurity has affected the agricultural sector in Nigeria?
- What are the broader economic implications of insecurity on food security sustainability in Nigeria?
Research Hypotheses
In light of the research questions, the following hypotheses were formulated:
Null Hypotheses(H0):
- There is no significant impact of the evolution of insecurity on the agricultural sector in Nigeria.
- Insecurity has a positive and statistically significant effect on the sustainability of food security in the Nigerian economy.
- Implementing effective security measures and policies cannot mitigate the impact of insecurity on food security in Nigeria.
Alternative Hypotheses(H1):
- There is a significant impact of the evolution of insecurity on the agricultural sector in Nigeria.
- Insecurity has a negative and statistically significant effect on the sustainability of food security in the Nigerian economy.
- Implementing effective security measures and policies can mitigate the impact of insecurity on food security in Nigeria.
Significance of the Study
This research carries profound significance for a spectrum of stakeholders, encompassing policymakers, researchers, and the general populace. Through its exploration of the intricate interplay between insecurity and food security, the study offers invaluable insights poised to guide the formulation and execution of policies geared towards bolstering economic stability and fostering sustainable food production in Nigeria. The implications of the study extend beyond immediate applications, contributing substantially to the existing repository of knowledge regarding the far-reaching consequences of insecurity on national development.
For policymakers, the findings serve as a crucial resource, offering evidence-based insights that can inform the design of targeted interventions and strategies. Understanding the nuanced dynamics of how insecurity impacts food security allows for the creation of policies that address specific challenges faced by diverse regions and communities within Nigeria. This targeted approach is pivotal in crafting effective solutions that resonate with the unique circumstances of different segments of the population.
Researchers stand to benefit from the study as it enriches the academic discourse surrounding the complex relationship between insecurity and food security. The findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge, providing a deeper understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by a nation often heralded as the “Giant of Africa.” This knowledge expansion not only enhances scholarly understanding but also lays the groundwork for future research endeavours, encouraging a more comprehensive exploration of the subject.
Lastly, the broader public gains from the study’s insights as it fosters awareness and comprehension of the critical issues at hand. By elucidating the connections between insecurity and food security, the study empowers individuals to comprehend the intricate factors influencing their daily lives. This increased awareness among the general populace can, in turn, foster a more informed and engaged society, driving collective efforts towards addressing the challenges posed by insecurity and working towards a more secure and food-sustainable future for Nigeria.
Scope of the Study
This study focused on the period from 1986 to 2022, acknowledging the historical context and evolution of insecurity in Nigeria during this timeframe. The geographical scope encompassed the entire nation, considering the diverse regional dynamics that contribute to the overall security situation. The study specifically delved into the impact of insecurity on the agricultural sector and its consequences for food security sustainability.
Operational Definition of Terms
To ensure clarity and precision in the study, the following key terms were operationally defined:
Insecurity: In this study, insecurity refers to the state of being vulnerable to threats, violence, and conflicts that undermine the stability and well-being of individuals and communities.
Food Security: Food security is defined as the condition in which all individuals have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life.
Sustainability: Sustainability in the context of food security refers to the ability of the agricultural sector to consistently produce an adequate and reliable food supply without compromising the well-being of future generations.
Agricultural Sector: The agricultural sector includes all activities related to the cultivation of crops, livestock farming, and other agricultural practices contributing to the production of food and raw materials.
Economic Implications: Economic implications refer to the consequences of insecurity on the overall economic performance, trade, and development of the Nigerian economy.
Policy Recommendations: Policy recommendations involve suggested actions and strategies that can be implemented by policymakers to address the challenges posed by insecurity and enhance food security sustainability.
Evolution of Insecurity: The evolution of insecurity entails the historical development and changes in the nature, scope, and intensity of security challenges faced by Nigeria over the specified period.
Mitigation Measures: Mitigation measures refer to actions and interventions that can be taken to alleviate the adverse effects of insecurity on the agricultural sector and enhance the resilience of the Nigerian economy.
References
- FAO (2012) “The State of Food Insecurity in the World.” Available: https://www.google.com.pk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahU
- FAO (2022) The state of food insecurity in the world. Rome: Food and Agriculture Organization.
- FAO, IFAD and WFP, (2021). The State of Food Insecurity in the World: The Multiple Dimensions of Food Security. Rome, FAO. FAO,. Global Forest Resources Assessment. Available: https://www.google.com.pk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=3&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahU.
- Folayan, M.O.; Ibigbami, O.; El Tantawi, M.; Brown, B.; Aly, N.M.; Ezechi, O.; Abeldaño, G.F.; Ara, E.; Ayanore, M.A.; Ellakany, P.; et al. (2021). Factors Associated with Financial Security, Food Security and Quality of Daily Lives of Residents in Nigeria during the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 18, 7925.
- Goddard, W. & Melville, S. (2020) Research Methodology: An Introduction. 2nd edition, Blackwell Publishing.
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