Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to sanitation officials responsible for waste management in Abuja, threatening to remove them from office if they fail to address the growing problem of refuse dumps along major roads and highways, multiple news outlets report.

Wike’s directive came during an executive meeting of the FCT Administration aimed at tackling lingering environmental concerns in the capital city, particularly piles of uncollected refuse and debris accumulating in public spaces and along road shoulders despite previous cleanup efforts. The minister expressed frustration at what he described as poor waste management performance by relevant departments and area councils.

The minister emphasised that roadside waste not only mars the aesthetics of the Federal Capital Territory but also poses serious public health and environmental risks. He said officials must step up enforcement of sanitation regulations improve coordination of contracted waste handlers and ensure timely refuse collection across all districts of Abuja.

Wike reportedly instructed senior officers of the FCT Administration and waste management agencies to develop a clear action plan with measurable targets for clearing existing refuse dumps and preventing future accumulation. Those who fail to meet performance expectations could be relieved of their duties or face administrative sanctions, he added.

The latest warning follows months of public complaints about heaps of trash uncollected in many parts of the city, a problem that local media and residents have highlighted as an ongoing challenge for urban management in Abuja.

Wike’s threat to sack officials reflects his broader push for improved accountability and service delivery in the FCT, which has included efforts to strengthen waste management contracts and oversight through the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council and other agencies. Authorities say they will continue to monitor progress and engage community stakeholders in keeping the city clean.