By Badejo B. Tinuke and Badejo M. Adetola
Abstract
In this study, the various health problems caused by improper disposal of domestic wastes are identified as cholera, malaria, typhoid and skin infections of which malaria is the most prevalent. Those who live close to dumpsites are more prone to these diseases than those who live far away. Common waste disposal methods in Nigeria are identified as incineration, dump sites, street bins, roadsides, drains, streams, bury and burn in pits, landfills and sewage treatment. All of these put together falls short of the currently globally acceptable appropriate environmentally friendly techniques where bioreactors process organic wastes into biogas and organic fertilizers while industrial materials are recycled. Waste sorting in each household before regular collection at regular weekly intervals by each Local Government in contrast to the regional bodies currently being used by State Governments is recommended. An inter-governmental approach is recommended for the upgrade of the current Private Sector Participation to Public Private Participation at each Local Government level where all the three tiers of government are involved is advocated.