An Evaluation of Solid Waste Management option in some Urban enters of Niger State.

Abstract

Solid waste management is a major social development, and health problem in all developing countries, especially in growing cities which lack proper planning and facilities and facilities for its management. Niger state is experiencing this problem as waste dumps has sprung up all over the major cities thereby debasing the aesthetic value of the state with attendant health risk and environmental degradation. This study aimed at current practices and highlighted possible option for effective and efficient solid waste management. Questionnaires, literatures, interviews and observational methods were adopted for the study and the result revealed that apart from disposal problem waste is neither separated, nor stored properly and people attitude to waste management is very appalling. It is recommended that waste should be separated at source as a management strategy. Organic waste should be composted and used as fertilizer for food production, while reusable items should be retrieved and turned to useful items, thereby creating opportunity for waste to wealth in the state. Land fill is the most suitable method for final disposal of waste for now, while effort should be made to build appropriate incinerators for the disposal of toxic and hazardous waste. Nonetheless there is the urgent need for intensive information and education of the public on the need for proper waste management in the state. This should be backed up with enforceable regulation with private sector participation and systematic monitoring.