Abuja, Nigeria — Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, are facing mounting hardship as the twin challenges of a rising cost of living and growing security concerns continue to disrupt daily life across the city and its satellite towns.
Over the past year, the prices of essential goods and services have surged sharply. Food items, transportation, housing, and utilities now consume a larger share of household income, placing severe pressure on low- and middle-income earners. Many residents say stagnant wages have made it increasingly difficult to meet basic needs.
Transportation has emerged as one of the hardest-hit sectors. With higher fuel costs and limited public transport options, commuters traveling from satellite towns such as Kubwa, Nyanya, Karu, Lugbe, Gwagwalada, and Bwari now spend a significant portion of their income on daily travel. Workers and students alike report rising financial stress as commuting costs erode disposable income.
Housing costs have also continued their upward climb. Persistent rent hikes in several districts of Abuja have forced many residents to relocate to the outskirts of the city, often to areas with inadequate infrastructure and limited access to public services. This trend has contributed to overcrowding and the expansion of informal settlements, further straining already limited resources.
Alongside these economic pressures, insecurity remains a major concern within the FCT. Reports of kidnapping, armed robbery, and other criminal activities—particularly in satellite towns and along major entry routes into the city—have heightened anxiety among residents. In many communities, movement is increasingly restricted during late hours due to fear, negatively affecting social life and economic activity.
The security challenges have also taken a toll on businesses. Many operators now close earlier or scale back operations to reduce exposure to risk. Small-scale traders and transport operators are especially affected, as shorter working hours translate directly into reduced income.
Residents and civil society stakeholders continue to urge relevant authorities to intensify security operations, improve intelligence gathering, and increase police presence in vulnerable areas. At the same time, there are growing calls for policies that directly address economic pressures, including improved public transportation systems, affordable housing initiatives, and targeted support for small businesses.
As Abuja continues to expand, effectively confronting both the rising cost of living and persistent security challenges remains critical to protecting residents’ welfare and sustaining the FCT’s role as Nigeria’s administrative capital.
Walida Rukaiya Yakubu
Coordinator, COPDEM Student Network
FCT, Abuja
