Research Partnership Spotlight: Cross-Border Pastoralism, Environmental Change, and Peacebuilding

In Collaboration with Conciliation Resources | Supported by UK Aid
In line with our mission to promote sustainable peace and strengthen community resilience, the ABAK-PEACE FOUNDATION was privileged to serve as a research partner in a landmark cross-border initiative titled “Cross-Border Pastoralism, Environmental Change, and Peacebuilding in Adamawa State and Cameroon.”
This impactful engagement was hosted by Conciliation Resources and supported by UK Aid, under the XCEPT (Cross-Border Conflict, Evidence, Policy and Trends) Programme. The culmination of the research was marked by a multi-stakeholder validation event held on May 17, 2023, at the American University of Nigeria’s Yola Hotel.

Purpose of the Research
The research was initiated to:

• Understand the conflict dynamics linked to pastoral mobility, climate change, and competition over natural resources.
• Examine the environmental and security challenges affecting herder–farmer relations across borders.
• Promote inclusive peacebuilding strategies rooted in local realities and cultural understanding.

Stakeholder Engagement
The forum brought together a wide range of actors including:

• Herders’ and farmers’ associations
• Traditional rulers and religious leaders
• Security agencies
• Government officials from both Nigeria and Cameroon
• Civil society groups and development stakeholders

This inclusive approach ensured that the findings reflected diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and practical solutions.
ABAK-PEACE FOUNDATION’s Contribution
As a recognized grassroots peace actor in Adamawa State, ABAK contributed meaningfully by:

• Facilitating community mobilization for inclusive participation.
• Providing localized knowledge to enrich the research framework.
• Supporting dialogue and stakeholder engagement throughout the process.

Our team worked collaboratively with local leaders and cross-border actors to ensure the outcomes represented real community needs and actionable pathways to peace.

From Research to Action
Following the research, ABAK-PEACE FOUNDATION has been intentional in applying the findings to strengthen its field programs and peacebuilding initiatives. Specifically:

• Integrating the research insights into early warning systems to prevent local conflicts.
• Enhancing advocacy for policy reforms that support peaceful pastoralism and sustainable land use.
• Fostering dialogue and cooperation between Nigerian and Cameroonian border communities.
• Equipping local actors, especially youths and women, to serve as peace ambassadors.

A Critical Juncture for Peace in Adamawa State
This engagement came at a time when resource scarcity, environmental pressures such as drought and desertification, and rising tensions between herders and farmers were escalating. The event provided a platform for constructive dialogue among key stakeholders, including industry representatives, NGOs, and cross-border officials.
Through open discussions, participants identified priority actions:

• Establishing effective communication and conflict resolution mechanisms.
• Implementing sustainable resource management practices.
• Exploring economic diversification opportunities to reduce competition over dwindling resources.
• Strengthening cross-border cooperation as a foundation for lasting peace and stability.

Call for Partnerships and Support
The research phase has laid a solid evidence-based foundation. The next critical step is implementation, turning these recommendations into tangible, measurable actions that transform communities.
ABAK-PEACE FOUNDATION is therefore calling on:

• Donor agencies
• International and local NGOs
• Government stakeholders
• Private sector partners
• Philanthropic organizations and individuals

…to join hands with us in implementing the Cross-Border Pastoralism, Environmental Change, and Peacebuilding project.
We seek technical collaboration, financial investment, and policy support to:

• Pilot and scale conflict prevention and mediation platforms in high-tension border areas.
• Support sustainable grazing and farming practices to reduce competition over land.
• Develop livelihood diversification programs to improve economic resilience.
• Strengthen cross-border early warning and response systems for conflict.
• Promote climate adaptation initiatives that address environmental triggers of conflict.

With the right partnerships, we can move from research findings to lasting impact, ensuring that herders and farmers not only coexist peacefully but also thrive in a shared environment of prosperity, stability, and mutual respect.

Conclusion
The “Cross-Border Pastoralism, Environmental Change, and Peacebuilding” initiative represents a significant milestone in ABAK-PEACE FOUNDATION’s commitment to peace and development in Northern Nigeria. By bringing together diverse perspectives and building collaborative solutions, we have created a blueprint for peace that is practical, inclusive, and sustainable.
We now invite all partners and supporters to walk with us in the implementation journey, transforming research into real-world change and creating a legacy of peace that future generations will inherit.