The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has confirmed that plans are ongoing with key national security and livestock authorities to phase out open cattle grazing within Abuja city centre.
The move is to improve security, safeguard farmlands, and introduce modern livestock practices that support economic sustainability.
Speaking during a monthly media chat in Abuja, Wike said the FCT Administration is working closely with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muktar Maiha, and the leadership of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) to deliver a lasting solution.
The minister has highlighted that cattle rearing in the capital has become a national security concern, necessitating the involvement of security agencies.
He explained that ranching remains the only viable pathway for resettling herders and livestock away from congested urban locations.
“Discussions are ongoing. We are trying to provide ranches where cattle will be taken,” Wike said.
“It has a lot of implications, and that’s why I said it’s a national security issue. I believe that in the near future, it will be sorted out.”
Wike added that the collaboration will ensure that affected pastoralists are carried along, helping to reduce conflict, boost productivity, and protect agricultural land resources.
The plan follows recent federal efforts to revitalise grazing reserves nationwide.
During an inspection earlier in the Kawu Grazing Reserve, Maiha disclosed that herders in the capital have already agreed to relocation measures that will keep cattle out of the city centre.
Consultations have involved traditional leaders, agricultural stakeholders, and security officials, including the Sultan of Sokoto, to increase acceptance and promote long-term compliance.
The planned transition to ranching is expected to reduce farmer–herder clashes and crop destruction, support climate-smart livestock systems, create more organised agribusiness employment opportunities and enhance food security and meat value chains
Source: Punch
