Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

This study examines the association between conflict, COVID-19, and food security across local government areas (LGAs) in post-pandemic Northern Nigeria. Using an unbalanced two-year panel dataset consisting of 131 LGAs, a fixed-effect model was estimated. The findings indicate a positive association between COVID-19 and food insecurity, but its interaction with conflict is not statistically significant. The results suggest that civilian-initiated conflicts have a significant association with food security compared to those initiated by the largest group of conflict actors, militias. A policy recommendation emerging from this study is the importance of enhancing local capacities for conflict management and resilience building in food systems to limit the effects of such shocks on food security. Future research is needed to understand the long-term impacts of conflict and COVID-19, accounting for the bidirectional complexities and the mechanisms through which households cope and adapt to these challenges.