The Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) has urged contractors to adopt efficient practices to improve sanitation across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Mrs. Kate Ogbonna, Acting Director of AEPB, made the call during a meeting with the 54 newly inaugurated contractors in the FCT. She stressed that the contractors are responsible for the regular and thorough evacuation of refuse from bins, bus stops, and other public areas.
“The aim of this meeting is to have a close discussion on how the work should be done between us, the directors, and the contractors,” Ogbonna said.
“You should know your demarcation and understand what is expected of you. The Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, has given a marching order that contractors must be on the ground and carry out their duties as stipulated.
“Your primary responsibility is to ensure a clean environment. The Minister wants the FCT to be a first-class city globally in terms of cleanliness and to provide a healthy environment for both residents and visitors,” she added.
Ogbonna recalled that the emphasis on environmental cleanliness with the newly inaugurated contractors began on November 17. She noted that while some contractors are performing satisfactorily, others are yet to meet expectations.
She also stressed the role of residents in maintaining a clean environment, saying, “It is not only the contractors who are responsible. Residents must provide adequate waste bins, clean their surroundings, and prevent overgrown grasses.”
Assuring the contractors about delayed payments, Ogbonna said the FCT Minister would address the issue. She noted that AEPB is working closely with Mr. Felix Obuah, Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, to ensure environmental sustainability within the FCT.
Speaking further, Mr. Omoruyi Omogiade, Director of Solid Waste Management South, urged contractors to carry out their duties diligently to avoid penalties. He warned against indiscriminate dumping and burning of waste, noting that such acts would attract sanctions. He also advised contractors to provide first aid equipment for their personnel to safeguard their health while on duty.
Mr. Ben Enwerem, Director of Solid Waste Management North, urged contractors to maintain daily work schedules, warning that AEPB would not pay contractors who fail to perform. He added that a contractor evaluation chart would facilitate timely payments and ensure close monitoring of performance to avoid lapses in service delivery to FCT residents.
