Assessment of Household Solid Waste Management Techniques in Nassarawa “A” Ward in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

The most pressing environmental challenge encountered by the urban areas of Nigeria is domestic solid waste management. With its population reaching 200 million, Nigeria sustains its position as one of Africa's largest producers of solid waste. It is indicated that more than 30 million tons of solid waste are generated annually, mostly by households (URL1). Insufficient collection and disposal of municipal waste and lack of reliable transport infrastructures, including inadequate budgetary provisions make the implementation of waste management processes across the States very difficult.  Despite the measures put in place by governments across the country, waste management is still a challenge to tackle in high-density residential areas, specifically in informal settlements.   Public awareness and participation are critical components in waste management programs besides appropriate legislation, resilient technical support, and adequate funding if certain accomplishments are required. Based on this perspective, the research focuses on understanding what kind of solid waste is generated and how it is disposed of in a selected high-density residential area, the Nassarawa  “A†Ward in Minna city where the existence of rising informal settlements is a pressing issue. A household survey is conducted amongst informal settlers to assess the connection between the level of education of households, their awareness of the topic, and also, willingness to participate in the process. The research results proved that majority of the residents were concerned and affected by the poor state of their environment due to the lack of an appropriate solid waste management approach. Very few residents had awareness regarding the stages of waste management such as reusing, recycling, and composting. The research concludes that based on the results obtained from the survey, any waste management strategies introduced should encourage the education of residents and their active participation in the process.