Nigeria, with population in excess of 180 million, is one of the largest generators of solid waste in Africa. Despite a series of policies and regulations, solid waste management in the country is becoming a challenge with each passing day.
Additionally the country produces more than 32 million tons of solid waste annually, with only 20-30% been collected. Reckless disposal of MSW has led to the obstruction of drainage networks. Majority of the wastes is generated by households, with local industries, artisans and traders also contributing to a significant portion of the waste. Improper collection, disposal and the non biodegradable nature of municipal wastes is leading to an environmental catastrophe as the country currently lack adequate budgetary provisions for the implementation ofcoordinated integrated waste management programmes across the States.
Lagos State, the commercial capital of the country, is the second fastest growing city in Africa and seventh in the world. Latest reports from the state government and other research agencies estimate its population to be in excess of 21 million making it the largest city in entire Africa. With per capita waste generation of 0.5 kg per day, the city generates more than 10,000 tons of urban waste daily.
Despite being a model for other states in the country, municipal waste management is a big challenge for the Lagos State government to manage alone, hence the need to engage the services of private waste firms and other franchisee to reduce the burden of waste collection and disposal. One fundamental issue is the delayed collection of household solid waste. Due to the non biodegradable nature of the wastes. The state has been faced with the challenge of dumpsites filling up quickly.
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