The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has opened up on the complexities surrounding the contentious issue of open grazing in Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja. Speaking during his monthly press conference in Abuja on Monday, Wike admitted that resolving the matter demands a careful and strategic approach, emphasizing that governance in Nigeria is far from simple.
Wike expressed empathy with residents who are displeased about the persistent presence of cattle along major roads in the capital. He stressed that while he understands public frustrations, governance is not a one-man show, and any action taken must be in line with national sensitivities and the prevailing security and political context.
“No rational person will be happy seeing cows roaming freely on major roads in the FCT,” Wike said. “But the truth is that governance is not like running a private business. You must understand the complexities of the nation and tread cautiously.”
In his address, Wike revealed that the administration inherited a longstanding challenge involving designated grazing reserves in Abuja. One of the major reserves, spanning over 1,000 hectares, has reportedly been overrun by encroachers and land grabbers. He disclosed that efforts to reclaim the land have sparked fierce resistance.
“Before I assumed office, land was allocated for grazing reserves. But today, that land has been illegally taken over. The kind of fight we are in just to reclaim it shows how deep the issue is,” the Minister added.
Wike emphasized that solving the open grazing problem is not merely about issuing directives or demolition orders but requires collaboration with traditional institutions, security agencies, and affected communities to avoid further tensions.
The Minister further noted that Nigeria is currently grappling with multiple crises—security, political, and economic—and any move perceived as aggressive could inflame existing tensions. He assured the public that while the process may seem slow, his administration is committed to lasting solutions that do not escalate conflict.
“We are doing everything we can to find a way around the problem. But with the current situation in the country, you must tread with consciousness and care so as not to compound the issues,” he reiterated.
The issue of open grazing in the FCT has drawn criticism from civil society groups, urban development experts, and residents who demand the enforcement of the anti-open grazing laws already implemented in several states across the country. Critics argue that allowing free-roaming cattle in the nation’s capital undermines urban development, compromises road safety, and diminishes Abuja’s status as a model city.
However, Wike’s stance signals a more nuanced strategy—one that acknowledges both the cultural sensitivities tied to nomadic herding practices and the constitutional challenges of enforcing blanket bans.
As part of broader reforms in the FCT, Wike has pledged to enhance land administration, improve urban security, and prioritize infrastructure development, including rural integration. His administration is reportedly exploring sustainable models such as ranching zones and regulated grazing corridors, in alignment with the National Livestock Transformation Plan.
In the coming months, the FCT Administration is expected to roll out more details on how it plans to balance pastoral interests with urban development goals, ensuring peace, inclusivity, and sustainable governance.