CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
The management of solid waste remains one of the most
persistent and challenging environmental issues faced by urban
areas across the developing countries. In Nigeria, the problem has
become increasingly complex due to the interplay of factors such
as rapid urbanization, population growth, increased consumption
patterns, weak regulatory enforcement, and inadequate waste
management infrastructure. Solid waste refers to all non-liquid,
non-gaseous waste materials that result from domestic,
commercial, industrial, agricultural, and institutional activities.
These wastes, if not properly stored, collected, treated, and
disposed of, can pose significant risks to environmental
sustainability and public health (Ogwueleka, 2009).
In Nigeria urban population is expanding at a rapid rate, with cities
like Lagos, Enugu, Kano, and Port Harcourt experiencing growing
pressure on their environmental services. The urbanization
process, while providing economic opportunities, also results in
increased waste generation. Unfortunately, this waste is often
poorly managed due to a lack of infrastructure, low funding, and
weak coordination among governmental agencies. According to
the Federal Ministry of Environment (FME, 2020), Nigeria
generates over 32 million metric tonnes of solid waste annually,
and only about 20–30% being properly collected and disposed of.
The problem is particularly pronounced in commercial hubs and
markets, where economic activities are concentrated, and large
volumes of organic and inorganic waste are generated daily.
Nigerian urban markets, such as Mile 12 in Lagos, Bodija in
Ibadan, and New Market in Enugu, are typically maintenanceof
waste, with limited provisions for organized waste storage or
disposal. The result is the indiscriminate dumping of refuse along
access roads, open drains, and vacant lots, contributing to blocked
waterways, flooding, the spread of diseases, and general
environmental degradation (Afon, 2007).
In Enugu State, solid waste management is the responsibility of the
Enugu State Waste Management Authority (ESWAMA). However,
like similar agencies in other states, ESWAMA has struggled to
efficiently manage the increasing volume of waste generated in
both residential and commercial areas in Enugu. Markets like New
Market, which serve as major distribution points for food and goods
in the society, produce tons of waste daily—mostly biodegradable
items such as vegetable residues, fruit peels, food leftovers, as
well as non-biodegradables like plastics, nylons, and cardboard
boxes. Despite the high rate of waste generation, existing
infrastructure such as waste bins, transfer stations, and access to
timely collection is grossly insufficient (Ezeah, 2010).
Moreover, the attitudes and practices of the market users—both
traders and customer contribute to the worsening of the waste
situation. In most markets, waste is dumped in open spaces or
gutters, with little or no segregation. This is further compounded by
irregular collection by waste disposal contractors, which leads to
waste accumulation and severe sanitary conditions in the markets
and immediatesurrounding areas.
The lack of efficient waste storage and disposal systems not only
affects environmental quality but also poses severe health risks
such as cholera outbreaks, malaria fever due to stagnant water
accumulated in blocked drains, respiratory diseases from
decomposing organic waste, and injuries from broken glass and
sharp objects. In the New Market, Enugu where foodstuff and
perishable items are sold, the implications of poor waste
management are particularly grave.
This study, aims to assess solid waste storage and disposal with a
view to ensuring effective and sufficient waste management
especially in market areas in Enugu.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The management of solid waste remains a critical urban challenge
in many Nigerian cities, and New Market in Enugu is no exception.
Despite the commercial vibrancy and economic relevance of the
New Market area, the infrastructure for solid waste storage and
disposal has proven grossly inadequate and inefficient. Heaps of
refuse are often found in unauthorized locations — along market
paths, beside drainage systems, and in close proximity to food
items — posing serious health and environmental risks to traders,
customers, and residents within and around the market.
A field observation reveals that waste storage containers are either
insufficient or in poor condition, forcing many traders and waste
generators to resort to indiscriminate dumping. This not only
disfigures the physical environment but also blocks access roads
and contributes to flooding during the rainy season due to clogged
drainage channels. Additionally, the frequency and reliability of
waste collection services are inconsistent, resulting in the
accumulation of waste over extended periods.
Furthermore, there appears to be a low level of awareness and
adherence to proper waste handling practices among market
users. The lack of coordinated efforts between the Enugu State
Waste Management Authority (ESWAMA), local government
authorities, and market associations has further aggravated the
problem. Consequently, the public health implications,
environmental degradation, and the general decline in market
hygiene standards demand urgent academic inquiry and practical
intervention.
1.3 Goal of the Study
The goal of the Study is to provide effective and efficient solid waste
management in Enugu.
1.4 Objectives of the Study
The specific objectives of the study are to:
1. Examine the current methods of solid waste storage and
disposal in New Market, Enugu.
2. Identify the key challenges associated with solid waste
management in the market.
3. Evaluate the role of ESWAMA in managing solid waste.
4. Assess the environmental and health implications of improper
waste disposal in New Market, Enugu
5. Make recommendations for improving solid waste storage and
disposal in New Market.
1.5 Statement of Hypothesis
Null Hypothesis (H₀): There is no significant relationship between
poor solid waste storage and disposal methods and the unhealthy
environmental conditions in New Market, Enugu.
Alternative Hypothesis (H₁): There is a significant relationship
between poor solid waste storage and disposal and the unhealthy
environmental conditions in New Market, Enugu.
1.6 Scope of the Study
This study is focused on solid waste storage and disposal practices
in New Market, Enugu. It covers: Commercial areas with emphasis
on the New Market, Enugu.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
While carrying out this research, several limitations were
encountered that affected the depth and scope of the study:
1. Limited Access to Reliable Data: One of the major challenges
was the difficulty in accessing accurate and up-to-date records
from relevant authorities such as the Enugu State Waste
Management Authority (ESWAMA). Many officials were either
unavailable or reluctant to share vital information concerning waste
collection schedules, disposal methods, or operational challenges.
2. Reluctance of Respondents: Some market users and waste
handlers were hesitant to participate in interviews or
questionnaires, either due to fear of reprisal, lack of interest, or
distrust in how the information would be used. This limited the
volume of firsthand data collected during the fieldwork.
3. Time Constraints: The duration allocated for fieldwork and data
collection was relatively short, which affected the researcher’s
ability to carry out more extensive observation and follow-up visits.
This also hindered efforts to monitor changes in waste patterns
over time.
4. Language and Communication Barriers: Although English was
generally understood, some traders and informal waste workers
preferred to communicate in local dialects, making interaction and
explanation of the research process slightly challenging at times.
5. Unfavorable Environmental Conditions: The fieldwork was
sometimes interrupted by harsh weather conditions such as
rainfall, which made access to certain areas within the market
difficult and reduced visibility for environmental assessment.
6. Safety and Health Risks: Due to the nature of the study area,
exposure to waste materials and unhygienic surroundings posed
minor health and safety concerns. This limited the amount of time
that could be spent on-site during each visit.
1.8 Significance of the Study
The outcome of this study will help urban planners, allied
professionals and policy makers to efficiently manage solid waste
in market areas in our cities.
1.9 Definition of Terms
Solid Waste: Non-liquid waste materials discarded from
homes, businesses, and industries.
Storage: Temporary holding of waste in containers before
collection or treatment.
Disposal: Final placement or destruction of waste, typically
through landfilling, burning, or recycling.
