ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF INSECURITY AND PATHWAYS TO INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT IN MANGU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

Abstract

This study investigates the economic implications of insecurity and the pathways to inclusive development in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. Mangu is a local government area that has experienced severe communal violence, farmer-herder conflicts, and displacement in recent years. These conflicts have disrupted farming activities, destroyed livelihoods, and created a humanitarian crisis. The problem is that insecurity has devastated the local economy, yet there is limited understanding of how to rebuild sustainably and inclusively. This study used a descriptive survey research design. A sample of 200 respondents was selected from affected communities across Mangu LGA. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and key informant interviews. The data was analyzed using mean scores and chi-square tests. Findings showed that insecurity has significantly reduced agricultural productivity, destroyed market access, and displaced thousands of people. It has also led to loss of income, food insecurity, and breakdown of social cohesion. The study concludes that insecurity poses a major threat to economic development and poverty reduction in Mangu LGA. It recommends community-led peacebuilding initiatives, economic empowerment programs for vulnerable groups, and government investment in rural infrastructure and agricultural support.