Some residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, have urged the government to reintroduce monthly environmental sanitation exercises to combat rising waste issues and promote public hygiene.
Speaking in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the residents expressed concern over the growing environmental pollution and deterioration of hygiene standards across Abuja and its satellite towns. They believe a return to monthly sanitation would help residents take responsibility for their surroundings and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment.
The nationwide sanitation exercise was originally launched in 1984 under the military regime of Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, backed by the War Against Indiscipline decree. It mandated residents to clean their environment every last Saturday of the month, with movement restricted for three hours.
Though the exercise gained traction and evolved in various states over the years, it gradually lost effectiveness and participation, leading to its decline.
In 2023, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike announced plans to revive the monthly sanitation initiative. He proposed that two Saturdays each month be designated for sanitation between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., with President Bola Tinubu already briefed on the idea. However, two years later, the plan has yet to be implemented.
Community leader Mr. Amos Abache from Bwari town criticized the current state of cleanliness in parts of the FCT, saying streets and public spaces have turned into dump sites. He called for strict enforcement of a monthly sanitation day, backed by environmental health officers and mobile sanitation courts to ensure compliance.
Mrs. Rabi Ohida, a health worker, emphasized the health benefits of regular sanitation. She said clean surroundings help prevent diseases such as cholera, malaria, and typhoid, and that continuous awareness campaigns and community education are vital.
Businessman Mr. Mohammed Sani argued that sanitation shouldn’t be left to the government alone. “Residents must take ownership. If they’re involved in cleaning, they’ll be less likely to litter carelessly,” he said, adding that a clean environment improves property values and overall quality of life.
However, Mr. Zachary Abutu, an environmentalist, warned about potential challenges. He noted that mandatory sanitation days might disrupt businesses, cause road closures, and be seen as infringing on people’s rights. He stressed the need for careful planning, consistent public engagement, and supporting infrastructure such as regular waste collection.
Despite differing opinions, all agreed that community-led sanitation, backed by strong policy, enforcement, and public education, is essential for a cleaner and healthier FCT.
