The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT),
Nyesom Wike, has acknowledged public concerns over the continued movement of cattle on roads within Abuja, stating that he accepts full responsibility for the situation.
Speaking during his routine media engagement held in the nation’s capital on Monday, the minister admitted that the sight of livestock wandering along major highways and streets remains unacceptable despite ongoing efforts to improve the city’s appearance and infrastructure.
Wike expressed disappointment that the issue has persisted and offered an apology to residents who have repeatedly complained about the presence of cattle within the city. According to him, the administration is aware of the concerns raised by motorists and other road users and is determined to find a lasting solution.
He stressed that the development does not reflect the standards the FCT Administration hopes to achieve for Abuja and assured citizens that measures are being strengthened to tackle the challenge.
Beyond the issue of roaming cattle, the minister used the briefing to provide updates on various developmental projects currently underway across the territory. He explained that the FCT Administration is not concentrating solely on the city centre but is also extending infrastructure development to communities located in the six Area Councils.
According to Wike, several projects covering critical sectors are being executed simultaneously in different parts of the territory. These include the construction and rehabilitation of roads, expansion of water supply networks, and the development of residential facilities for government workers.
The minister noted that the objective is to ensure balanced growth across the FCT by providing essential amenities and improving living conditions in both urban and rural communities. He maintained that residents in satellite towns deserve the same level of infrastructure as those living within the city centre.
Wike stated that the administration remains committed to delivering projects that will improve transportation, enhance economic activities, and support overall development across the territory.
He also announced plans for a series of project commissioning ceremonies scheduled to begin later this month. The events, he said, will form part of activities marking the third anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
According to the minister, the commissioning exercise will commence on June 8 and continue for 31 consecutive days, during which completed projects across different sectors will be officially unveiled to the public. He added that President Tinubu will participate in some of the ceremonies alongside officials of the FCT Administration.
Wike further argued that the road infrastructure projects already completed in various communities have significantly improved access to previously underserved areas. He noted that better road networks have also contributed to strengthening security by making it easier for security agencies to respond to incidents and monitor vulnerable locations.
The issue of cattle roaming freely within Abuja has remained a long-standing concern for residents, with many expressing worries about traffic disruptions, accidents, and public safety. Complaints about livestock on major roads have surfaced repeatedly over the years despite government interventions.
The minister nevertheless maintained that the impact of the current administration’s policies and development programmes is becoming increasingly visible across the Federal Capital Territory. He expressed confidence that ongoing projects would continue to improve the quality of life for residents and accelerate the transformation of Abuja.
