FCTA earmarks 33, 000 hectares for cattle grazing

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has earmarked a‎ total of 33,485 hectares for grazing reserves to cater for about seven million herds of cattle in the territory.

The hectares comprised of Paikon Kore (8,500 hectares), Karshi (6,000 hectares), Kawu in Bwari (9,000 hectares) and Rubochi in Kuje (9,985 hectares.)

FCT Minister, Musa Bello, disclosed this on Monday when met with members of the Miyatti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, FCT chapter.

During the meeting in his office, the minister insisted that herdsmen must move their cattle out of the Federal capital city as there was no way such animals could co-habit with residents.

Bello noted that for safety reasons also, cattle should not roam the streets and highways in the city.

According to him, “In a modern city, it is not possible for animals and vehicles to move together on the roads because this could cause accidents which in some cases could be fatal.”

The minister commended Miyatti Allah for its support to the FCT administration and the Federal Government and urged them to continue to robustly support the government of President Muhammadu Buhari.

He urged the association to nominate some of their members to serve in the ministerial taskteam on environment under the chairmanship of Squadron Leader, Abdullahi Adamu Monjel to ensure that there is smooth communication between FCTA and the association.

He said, “You have to understand that when Abuja Environmental Protection Board says cattle should not roam the city, it is not because they want to prevent cattle breeders from raring cattle in the FCT. Basically, it is just for safety. It is for safety of your cattle and above all, safety of the citizens.”

Earlier, the chairman of the FCT Chapter of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Malam Yahaya Isah promised to continue to interface with the administration to promote peaceful co-existence in the country.

He assured that his association would enlighten the members not to breed their cattle on the streets and highways of Abuja again.