The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has commenced procurement processes for new contracts to manage waste collection, evacuation, and disposal in Abuja’s satellite towns.
Abdulkadir Zulkiflu, coordinator of the Satellite Towns Development Department (STDD), disclosed this during a waste evacuation exercise in Karu, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
Zulkiflu explained that the previous waste management contracts expired in April 2024, prompting immediate intervention by the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, who directed the clearing of dump sites as a temporary measure.
“The primary purpose of this evacuation is that contracts were initially in place for three years, awarded in 2022, but expired this April. We are now conducting a fresh procurement process for new contracts.
“Meanwhile, the Honourable Minister directed us to bridge the gap by clearing waste under STDD supervision, not through contractors,” he said.
He confirmed that the cleanup operation would extend from Nyanya to Karshi, with plans to expand to other Area Councils.
“The Minister ordered the evacuation of waste along the Nyanya-Karshi axis. We also hope to extend this intervention to other councils, as our mandate is to address critical waste management issues in satellite towns,” Zulkiflu stated.
The STDD Coordinator raised concerns over the health risks of designated waste collection points, citing overcrowding and environmental hazards.
“This site is a collection point where all nearby waste is dumped, but space is insufficient. People keep bringing refuse every minute, creating a health hazard.
“We will appeal to the Minister to explore permanent removal of this site in collaboration with Area Councils. The health of residents is at risk, and we need alternative solutions,” he said.
He said the ongoing evacuation is a stopgap until new contractors are engaged, ensuring uninterrupted waste management services in the FCT’s satellite communities.
