ABUJA – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has delivered an uncompromising ultimatum to solid waste management contractors, declaring that the era of excuses and substandard performance in keeping Abuja clean has ended.
During a decisive meeting with contractors on Tuesday, the Minister emphasized that Nigeria’s capital must reflect its status through impeccable sanitation, particularly in high-profile districts like Asokoro, Maitama, and along the critical Airport Road corridor.
“We cannot let challenges or difficulties become excuses. We are here to solve problems,” Wike stated. “Problems have been identified and solutions have been worked on. Every second, every minute, every hour counts. You must monitor your areas and know what is happening at all times.”
The Minister revealed that he had conducted unscheduled inspections in Utako and Asokoro and found compliance levels unsatisfactory. He stressed that these areas, frequently used by international visitors and dignitaries, are non-negotiable priorities for cleanliness.
Wike issued a stark warning against complacency and external interference, urging contractors to resist political pressure and ethnic or religious manipulation designed to undermine enforcement. “This is a workshop: if you do not work, there is no job,” he cautioned. “Some of you get compromised, and that affects your output. If someone refuses to comply, we will act accordingly.”
The Minister also alerted contractors to expect potential sabotage from unsuccessful bidders, including disinformation campaigns and digitally altered images circulated online.
In response, the Chairman of the Association of Solid Waste Contractors, Ibrahim Babayo, pledged the contractors’ full commitment to restoring Abuja’s reputation as Nigeria’s cleanest city, aligning with the Minister’s reform agenda.
Despite acknowledging financial constraints within the FCT Administration, Wike assured contractors of continued support while demanding immediate, visible improvements across the capital.
