De-agrarianization in Northern Nigeria: Circular Migration Laid to Rest

Abstract

This study examines the dynamics of migration from southern Niger to northern Nigeria, focusing on the processes that leads to de-agrarianization. Data was collected through household interviews and focus group discussions with migrants in Daura, Katsina, ‘Yar Shanya, Magama Jibiya, Kano, and surrounding areas. Findings reveal that migration is driven by multiple factors including economic (bida), seasonal (ci rani), educational, health, and business-related motives. Most migrants initially engage in circular or seasonal migration, returning home during the rainy season for farming, but after six to ten years many transition into permanent settlement. This shift is often accompanied by household restructuring, where spouses either relocate from Niger or Nigerian partners join the household. Migrants sustain links to their origins through remittances, facilitated informally via personal networks. Results further show that economic migrants, particularly ‘yan ci rani, are the group most associated with de-agrarianization, gradually abandoning farming for non-agricultural livelihoods. While this transition enhances income opportunities in host communities, it simultaneously contributes to farmland abandonment and declining agricultural productivity in areas of origin. The study concludes that de-agrarianization poses a growing threat to food security in the Sahel, underscoring the need for policies that encourage sustainable land use, strengthen agricultural support systems, and provide livelihood diversification strategies that complement rather than replace farming.