Evaluation of Solid Waste Management Policy Implementation in Abuja Federal Capital Territory, North Central Nigeria

Effective solid waste management policy implementation is a critical determinant of urban environmental health outcomes. This study evaluated the implementation of the Abuja Environmental Protection Board waste management policy framework in three area councils of the Federal Capital Territory. A descriptive evaluation design was employed, using key informant interviews with twelve policy administrators and enforcement officials, waste audit data from six collection zones, and community perception surveys administered to 320 residents. Waste collection frequency, landfill operations, waste characterization, private sector participation, and public education activities were evaluated against policy targets. Results revealed that daily waste collection targets were achieved in only forty-two percent of assessed zones, with peri-urban areas experiencing collection gaps of up to nine days. The sole operational landfill was found to be operating beyond design capacity and lacked functional leachate management and gas collection systems. Recyclable material diversion programs, a stated policy objective, had not been operationalized. Only thirty-three percent of residents were aware of the formal waste management policy. Private sector involvement in waste collection, though policy-mandated, was limited by inadequate contractual oversight and delayed payments. The study concludes that a substantial implementation deficit exists between the FCT waste management policy and operational outcomes. Recommendations include independent policy audit mechanisms, phased landfill closure and replacement planning, and public-private partnership reform. Keywords: solid waste management, policy implementation, Abuja, FCT, landfill.