By Esther Ososanya
Abuja’s gleaming roads, bridges, and urban upgrades under FCT Minister Nyesom Wike are now overshadowed by a severe waste management crisis, drawing concern from residents and top presidential aides.
Tope Fasua, the Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs, warns that fly-tipping and unchecked refuse dumps are threatening the capital’s progress.
“A waste management crisis is riding on the achievements of Mr. Wike in Abuja. Something is breaking,” Fasua said after inspecting hotspot areas.
Over the weekend, Fasua visited several critical areas, including Life Camp Roundabout, the Gwarinpa–Kubwa Expressway, and Wuse 2/Utako. He described the Wuse 2 dump as “a gory sight” and insisted that authorities declare it an emergency and clear it immediately.
Residents Ecohed Concerns
Abuja’s waste management crisis has drawn strong reactions from residents, who are demanding accountability and practical solutions from the authorities.
Ejiro Okotie emphasized the need for agency accountability: “The FCT must have a department or agency in charge of waste management. Let’s hold them accountable. We cannot always blame the Chief Executive while agency heads hide behind ‘the buck stops at the Minister’s desk.’”
Adebola Obafemi pointed out the severity of the problem in Bwari: “No lies, the road leading to Bwari Area Council from Living Faith Church is a total mess. Just adjacent to the High Court in Bwari is a huge refuse dump an eyesore. FCDA, AEPB, and Ministry of Environment must act.”
Agboola Taiwo stressed the importance of sustainable waste collection: “The only sustainable solution is to collect waste at the source. Billing and collection should never be left to private providers. This must be done sustainably. Tell Gov Wike — he doesn’t need to become President to engrave his image in the sands of time.”
Jide Oladapo highlighted the economic potential of proper waste management: “Waste management is huge business for both government and private sector. The Lagos State model is a fledging example that can be adapted.”
Olarenwaju Peter shared his personal experience, revealing systemic obstacles: “I registered a waste management company in 2021, but AEPB demanded ₦420,000 plus other fees before operations could start. Environmental issues shouldn’t be profit-driven; government must support those genuinely interested.”
Together, these voices underscore the urgent need for the FCT government to take decisive action to address Abuja’s growing waste problem, ensuring sanitation keeps pace with the city’s urban development.
Who Bears Responsibility?
Fasua stressed that accountability doesn’t rest solely with the Minister: “There’s a fully funded waste management department in the FCT. We cannot blame Wike alone while agency heads escape accountability.”
He called for an audit of departments and strict enforcement against offenders.
Public health experts warn that dumps invite disease, including cholera, malaria, respiratory infections, and rodent infestations. Environmental analysts note that unchecked refuse undermines land values and deters investors. “Abuja can’t promote itself as modern if refuse competes with infrastructure,” said a health consultant.
Urgent Measures Required
Fasua advocates for immediate action to prevent further deterioration:
- Designating high-risk waste sites as environmental emergency zones
- Enforcing stricter penalties for illegal dumping
- Conducting a full audit of the FCT Waste Management Department
- Expanding bins, collection services, and community liaison systems
“Without urgent action, Abuja risks becoming a capital of rubbish rather than pride,” Fasua warned.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
