Through the InACC project, Neem Foundation, in partnership with the EU and GIZ, addresses the complex challenges of climate change and conflict in Nigeria’s rice-producing regions. Climate-induced degradation of pastureland and escalating violence in the northern regions have driven nomadic herders southward, intensifying clashes with rural farmers. These farmer-herder conflicts have tragically claimed over 8,343 lives between 2005 and mid-2021, with Benue and Nasarawa States bearing the brunt of the violence, often complicated by religious and ethnic divides.

In response, the InACC project fosters dialogue and collaboration between farmers and agro-pastoralists to build sustainable peace and improve resource management. Through this initiative, Neem Foundation has established and reinforced local committees and partner structures to mediate resource conflicts. In addition, a network of trained dialogue facilitators applies the Reflective Structured Dialogue approach to encourage open communication, allowing community members from diverse backgrounds to share conflict experiences and work toward mutual understanding. These initiatives are part of Neem Foundation’s commitment to creating resilient, peaceful communities in Nigeria’s rice production areas.