Insecurity, Rural-Urban Migration and Food Security in North-Central Nigeria Implications for National Security and Social Stability

Abstract

North Central, once considered Nigeria’s “food safe haven,” now grapples with a hollowing-out of its production base, increasing hunger, and dependency. This study examines the effects of insecurity and rural–urban migration on food security and urban social infrastructure across North Central, Nigeria. The study is anchored on the Human Security Theory. The study adopted a survey design accompanied by mixed-method research. Benue, Nasarawa, and Plateau States were used as the target population of the study, aggregating 14.1 million. A sample size of 400 was derived using Taro Yamane’s formula, and data were gathered through a structured questionnaire and key informant interviews (KIIs) with rural and urban dwellers, cutting across farmers, displaced persons, businessmen, civil servants, women leaders, religious leaders, community leaders, among others. Stratified and purposive sampling techniques were employed, and the research instrument yielded a reliability coefficient of 0.813 using Cronbach’s Alpha. Findings revealed that insecurity has driven mass displacement from rural communities, weakened food production, and led to the occupation of abandoned settlements by bandits and herders. Urban areas are now overstrained with persisting issues of housing, sanitation, education, and unemployment. It was concluded that the insecurity not only threatens the existence of the rural dweller but also national food security and social cohesion. The study recommended that, government must prioritize rural security, rebuild displaced communities, and invest in rural infrastructure. Communities and individuals must promote resilience, early warning systems, and support returnees and NGOs, civil society, and faith-based organizations should intensify humanitarian/livelihood support for rural restoration.