ASSESSMENT OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN SELECTED NEIGHBOURHOODS OF SULEJA, NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This research Assess Solid Waste Management in Selected Neighbourhoods of Suleja, Nigeria through the identification of the types and sources of waste, evaluation of the existing strategies of waste management, assessment of the effectiveness of the waste management strategies and the examination of the effects of inadequate solid waste disposal on the environment in the city. Data collected with the use of questionnaire, interview guide, and physical observations captured by digital camera were analysed and presented appropriately. This study showed that municipal waste management system in Suleja is old and characterized by inefficient collection methods, insufficient coverage of the collection system and improper disposal. As a consequence, it has resulted into serious obstruction of movement, blockage of drainages and severe physical damage with attendant environmental pollution. Key findings include the quantity of waste generated which is 3,388 cubic meters, majorly made up of nylon and sachets water and evacuated by twelve vehicles with waste carrying capacity of 82 cubic meters. The study also establish that majority of the residents disposed their waste to and through cart pushers due to the fact that the waste collection trucks only evacuate waste along the major roads within the town. Field survey results further shows that not all residents of Suleja are benefitting from the waste management services provided and as a result, the residents take part in improper disposal of solid waste into waterways and drainages, on open and vacant spaces and most of the times disposed on roads. Top amongst the proffered recommendations is the establishment of a working and sustainable agencies to adequately manage the growing number and nature of municipal wastes in Suleja and similar settlements in Nigeria and beyond. In order to achieve sustainability, the research highlighted areas for further research which were designed to facilitate the establishment of an efficient urban and municipal waste management system peculiar to Suleja and it surrounding cities.