FCTA Vows Decisive Action Against Illegal Abattoirs for Public Health

The Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has declared its intent to take strong measures against the proliferation of illegal abattoirs in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Mandate Secretary, Mr. Lawan Geidam, conveyed this commitment during a visit by officials of the FCT Butchers Association in Abuja.

Geidam emphasized that the initiative aims to ensure compliance with minimum standards in meat handling, prioritizing the well-being of consumers in Abuja.

He underscored the Veterinary Services Department’s efforts in monitoring and enforcing operational standards, citing the potential threat to public health posed by unauthorized abattoirs.

“Our objective is in line with the statutory mandate of the secretariat, which is to ensure that abattoirs in the FCT are not only duly registered and certified but also up to standard for the good of public health,” Geidam stated.

Assuring the butchers of the secretariat’s dedication to addressing challenges in the sub-sector, he mentioned ongoing efforts to provide water supply, ensure efficient waste management, and establish bio-gas stations as an alternative to hazardous practices.

“We will not ignore the significant issues facing our abattoirs, including the need for potable water and regular waste disposal.

I assure you that the present leadership of the FCT Administration are working hard to maintain standard in service delivery across all sectors in the FCT,” Geidam affirmed.

He concluded by stating that the secretariat would intensify daily meat inspection activities to ensure that no animal is slaughtered without being certified safe by veterinary doctors.