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ABUJA UNDER SIEGE: ROAMING COWS THREATEN THE CAPITAL'S BEAUTY AND MODERNITY

 ABUJA UNDER SIEGE: ROAMING COWS THREATEN THE CAPITAL'S BEAUTY AND MODERNITY


By Daniel Okonkwo


Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, stands as one of the most beautiful and strategically developed urban centers in Africa. With over four thousand modern housing estates and an ever-evolving infrastructure aimed at aligning with global urban standards, Abuja is a reflection of Nigeria’s aspiration for progress and modernity. Under the leadership of the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, the city has witnessed remarkable development—transforming swiftly and impressively into a modern metropolis. The commitment to a Western-style urban blueprint is evident in every corner of the city.


However, this progress is under threat from a long-standing and increasingly disruptive practice: open grazing of livestock within the city limits. The sight of cows roaming freely across roads, residential areas, and public spaces is becoming alarmingly common. This not only undermines the aesthetics and functionality of the city but poses serious safety risks, including traffic obstructions and accidents.


When Minister Nyesom Wike assumed office as FCT Minister, he promptly issued warnings to herders and stakeholders involved in open grazing, urging them to refrain from rearing cattle on the streets and roads of the FCT. Despite these directives, enforcement remains weak, and the practice persists, eroding the vision of a truly modern capital city.


Open grazing, once a traditional method of animal husbandry, has become increasingly unsustainable in urban and semi-urban areas. The introduction of the Anti-Open Grazing Law across several Nigerian states was a strategic intervention aimed at modernizing livestock management while mitigating the often deadly conflicts between herders and farmers. Abuja, as the capital territory, must lead by example in enforcing this law. Below are the key advantages of this legislative approach:


Restricting open grazing reduces violent clashes over land and water resources. These herder-farmer conflicts have cost many lives and caused substantial damage to communities and the economy.


The law encourages ranching and the development of designated grazing reserves, enabling better animal health, improved productivity, and more efficient resource management.


Open grazing contributes to land degradation, deforestation, and erosion. Controlled grazing practices promote environmental conservation and sustainable land use.


Economic Advancement: Ranching allows for more efficient feeding, breeding, and veterinary care. It enhances herders’ income and contributes significantly to local and national economies.


By supporting sustainable livestock farming, the law stabilizes the supply of meat and dairy products, essential for national food security.


The shift to ranching encourages cooperative societies among herders and encourages access to markets, resources, and support services, which in turn strengthens local economies.


With a legal framework in place, livestock movement can be better regulated and monitored. This is crucial for disease control and the overall improvement of animal health and public safety.


Transitioning from open grazing to ranching facilitates the adoption of modern agricultural practices, promoting innovation, sustainability, and improved productivity.


The practice of open grazing within the FCT cannot be allowed to continue unchecked. It is not only a blight on the city’s beauty but a tangible threat to its safety and order. Modern urban planning cannot coexist with outdated, hazardous practices that belong to a bygone era.


The relevant authorities must urgently revisit Minister Wike’s earlier directives and move from warnings to strict enforcement. Anyone found rearing cows openly on the streets of Abuja should be apprehended alongside their livestock. This will send a clear message that the Federal Capital Territory is not a grazing ground, but a symbol of national pride and modernity.


Abuja belongs to all Nigerians. It is a city built on vision, innovation, and structured development. Allowing open grazing to undermine its progress is a disservice to the nation. Now is the time for the FCT Administration to act decisively—protect the city’s image, uphold the rule of law, and promote sustainable agricultural practices for the good of all. 


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ABUJA UNDER SIEGE: ROAMING COWS THREATEN THE CAPITAL'S BEAUTY AND MODERNITY

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