Accountability Lab (AL) Nigeria commends the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), for his decisive actions to strengthen waste management and improve environmental sanitation across Abuja. The engagement of 54 contractors to oversee waste collection, his directive to establish a taskforce for monitoring contractor performance, and his mandate that contractors continue operations over weekends reflect a proactive approach to addressing longstanding sanitation challenges across communities in FCT. AL Nigeria recognizes that effective waste management requires a combination of transparency, accountability, and community engagement. We therefore applaud this move which provides a mechanism to ensure that contractors deliver on their responsibilities, and encourages openness and oversight in the process.

These measures demonstrate a strong commitment to promoting public health, enhancing environmental sustainability, and ensuring that Abuja maintains the standards expected of a modern, thriving capital city. It is particularly timely given the deteriorating state of environmental hygiene across Abuja in recent months. Several districts, ranging from the city centre to satellite communities, have witnessed mounting waste dumps, clogged drainage systems, and inconsistent waste collection cycles. These issues have not only posed serious public health risks but also undermined Abuja’s reputation as a model capital city. The FCTA’s renewed commitment signals an urgent and necessary step toward reversing this decline and restoring a cleaner, healthier environment for residents in Abuja.

We encourage the FCT Administration and all contracted service providers to uphold the highest standards of efficiency and accountability as this intervention moves forward. A cleaner Abuja is a collective responsibility, and this renewed effort provides a strong foundation for stronger environmental governance and improved public service delivery. We also encourage residents and communities to actively support this intervention and play their part in maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment.

AL Nigeria remains committed to working with government institutions to promote transparency, citizen engagement, and improved service delivery in the FCT and across Nigeria.

Signed

Blessing Anolaba

Storytelling Development Officer.