‘We fear for our souls’ – farmers on the frontline against Boko Haram

In the conflict-ridden region of north-eastern Nigeria, farmers like Aisha Isa face daily threats from jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (Iswap). Despite the dangers, these farmers continue to cultivate their crops, relying on the protection of Agro Rangers, a government-established security unit. Escorted by armed guards and transported by bus from the state capital, Maiduguri, farmers like Isa risk their lives to feed their families. The military has designated safe farming zones, marked by trenches, but venturing beyond these borders remains perilous. Kidnappings and killings are rampant, with many farmers recounting harrowing experiences of captivity and loss. The Borno state governor is pushing for the reintegration of displaced farmers into their lands to stabilize food production, but aid agencies warn that this policy may be premature. The Agro Rangers scheme, while providing some security, is underfunded and insufficient to cover the vast farming areas. The Nigerian government plans to expand the program, but the escalating violence and civilian fatalities underscore the urgent need for a more comprehensive solution. For farmers like Adam Goni, the constant threat of violence has become an unbearable reality, with many calling for stronger military intervention to end the insurgency.