Effect of Boko Haram Insurgency on Cattle Trade in Yobe State, Nigeria: A comparative Analysis of Market Performance, Traders Income, and Profitability

Abstract

The cattle trade is a crucial economic activity in Yobe State, Nigeria, particularly in rural communities whose livelihoods depend heavily on it. The Boko Haram insurgency has severely disrupted this trade, altering market operations, supply chains, and traders' income. This study analyzed the effect of the insurgency on cattle trade in three major markets in Yobe State before and after the conflict, describing the nature and frequency of attacks and examining traders' costs and returns across both periods. Purposive sampling was used to select the markets, while systematic sampling selected 249 cattle traders across the three markets. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected via Interview Schedule and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and analyzed using descriptive statistics, while gross margin analysis evaluated profitability and market margins for different cattle sizes before and after the insurgency. Findings show that arson, sporadic shootings, kidnappings, suicide bombings, use of Improvised Explosive Devices, threats, and assassinations were the main forms of attack on traders, with about 96% of respondents reporting having experienced insurgency attacks, sporadic shooting being the most prevalent. Insurgent activity disrupted the cattle supply chain, affecting production, distribution, and market access, and raising costs and logistical challenges. Despite this, markets showed resilience in pricing and profitability, each displaying unique trends, with small-sized cattle emerging as the most profitable category. Transportation costs rose sharply post-insurgency due to heightened security risks, fuel price increases, and checkpoint delays. The study recommends targeted infrastructure improvements, diversified supply sources, enhanced security, and inclusive growth strategies for the cattle trade amid ongoing conflict and insecurity.