A Review of Solid Waste Management Strategies in Nigeria

Abstract

The global population and increased urbanization have resulted in the increased production of municipal solid waste, thus, becoming a critical issue as a result of its poor management and inappropriate disposal. This is particularly the case of developing countries. This study assessed Solid Waste Management (SWM) strategies commonly adopted by different state waste management Authorities in Nigeria with a view to develop a sustainable roadmap for the management of solid waste in Nigeria. It assessed the Traditional Solid Waste Management Strategy (TSWMS), Waste Minimisation Strategy (WMS) as well as the Technological Strategy (TcS) employed, laying focus on their challenges and benefits. The study depended on a desktop study approach; hence, data were obtained from secondary data as the main source of information with emphasis on published journals, conference papers, newspaper posts and statutory reports from government agencies relevant to the current study. Results from the review showed that waste management across various parts of Nigeria is poor, interwoven with several challenges at all phase of the management process with little benefits recorded on alternative SWM strategy. The reason for the low success rate of some of this management strategies were noted as; increase in population, area covered, increase in urbanization and industrialization, tenure of government, over dependence on government authorities for waste management, finance and other factors of the environment. Although most waste authorities rely heavily on the TSWMS, WMS and the TcS showed a better and promising alternative strategy when inculcated into the already existing strategy. Based on this finding, a roadmap for the actualization of a sustainable integrated solid waste management strategy was recommended for adaptation and adoption by the Nigerian SWM Authorities and Agencies.

Keywords: Nigeria, Solid Waste Management, Traditional Solid Waste Management Strategy, Waste Minimisation Strategy, Technological Strategy, Waste Authorities.

DOI: 10.7176/JEES/10-6-11

Publication date:June 30^th 2020