The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has acknowledged the persistent challenge of roaming cattle on major roads and streets across Abuja, taking personal responsibility for the situation and assuring residents that efforts are ongoing to address the problem.
Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Abuja on Monday, the minister admitted that despite the administration’s commitment to improving the Federal Capital Territory, the movement of cattle within the city remains a concern that requires urgent attention.
Wike expressed regret that livestock continue to be seen on key roads and public spaces within the nation’s capital, noting that the issue has remained unresolved despite ongoing development and urban management efforts.
“I apologise that up till now there are cows still roaming the streets of Abuja, I take responsibility,” the minister said.
His remarks come amid recurring complaints from residents, motorists and commuters who have repeatedly raised concerns about the dangers associated with cattle wandering on highways and major roads across the city.
The presence of livestock on busy roads has long been viewed as a safety risk, with many residents calling for stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent animals from obstructing traffic and endangering road users.
While addressing the issue, Wike reiterated his administration’s commitment to transforming the Federal Capital Territory through sustained investment in infrastructure and public services.
According to him, the development agenda of the FCT Administration extends beyond the city centre and includes ongoing projects across the six Area Councils and other satellite communities.
The minister explained that the administration is implementing projects aimed at improving transportation, access to clean water, housing and other critical infrastructure needed to support development throughout the territory.
“Our attention is not only on developing the city centres of Abuja. We are also working in all the Area Councils.
“We are providing infrastructure everywhere across the FCT.”
Wike noted that several road construction projects are currently underway in different parts of the territory, with the objective of enhancing connectivity, easing transportation challenges and promoting economic activities within communities.
He added that the administration is also investing in water supply projects and housing initiatives designed to improve living conditions for residents and public servants.
The minister stressed that development should not be concentrated solely within central Abuja, emphasizing that residents in suburban and rural communities deserve access to the same level of infrastructure and public services.
As part of activities commemorating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s third year in office, Wike disclosed that the Federal Capital Territory Administration has planned an extensive project commissioning programme.
According to him, several completed projects across different sectors will be officially inaugurated over a one-month period in collaboration with the President.
“To celebrate Mr President’s three years in office, the FCTA will commission projects for the next 31 days commencing June 8, 2026,” he stated.
The minister explained that the planned inaugurations would showcase the administration’s investments in infrastructure development and demonstrate ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for residents across the territory.
He further argued that many of the road projects completed by the administration have already contributed to strengthening security and enhancing accessibility in previously underserved communities.
According to Wike, improved road networks have made it easier for security agencies to access remote areas while also supporting economic and social activities within affected communities.
The issue of roaming cattle has remained a longstanding concern in Abuja, with residents frequently reporting incidents involving livestock on major roads and highways. Safety advocates have repeatedly called for more effective measures to regulate animal movement and prevent accidents involving motorists and pedestrians.
Despite acknowledging the challenge, the minister maintained that significant progress has been achieved in other aspects of governance and infrastructure development within the Federal Capital Territory.
Wike also reiterated his earlier position that residents of Abuja are already experiencing the benefits of President Tinubu’s policies and programmes through visible infrastructure projects and improved public services.
He urged residents to assess government performance based on observable developments and ongoing projects, insisting that the administration remains focused on delivering meaningful improvements across the Federal Capital Territory.
