APPLICABILITY OF COASE THEOREM IN MANAGING FARMERS AND HERDERS’ CONFLICT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines the applicability of the Coase theorem in managing farmer–herder conflict in Nigeria, a persistent challenge that threatens the nation’s socio-economic stability and security.Employing a quantitative research design, the study draws on secondary data from conflict trend analyses, media reports, and scholarly literature. Findings reveal that clearly defined property rights, coupled with negotiated agreements, can lead to an equilibrium in which both farmers and herders derive mutual benefits without detriment to either party. The research further proposes a pragmatic policy framework that integrates Coase theorem principles with non-cooperative game theory to enhance conflict resolution efforts. This study contributes to conflict management literature by demonstrating the potential of economic theory to inform sustainable and context-specific interventions in Nigeria’s farmer–herder crisis.