Governance and waste management in urban Nigeria: a comparative study of OYO and rivers states

Abstract

This research examines the institutional and operational frameworks influencing solid waste management (SWM) in two principal metropolitan centres in Nigeria: Ibadan (Oyo State) and Port Harcourt (Rivers State). This study utilised a convergent parallel mixed-methods methodology, integrating data from structured surveys of 400 people with qualitative interviews of important stakeholders, including state solid waste management agencies, ministries, and contractors. The results show that both states still have problems, such as sporadic waste collection, open dumping, and low community participation. Statistical analysis substantiates a considerable correlation between fragile institutional frameworks and exacerbated environmental concerns. Qualitative data further elucidate deficiencies in funding, enforcement, and inter-agency coordination. The research suggests enhancing institutional capacity, reconfiguring public-private partnerships, and promoting community involvement as essential strategies for achieving sustainable urban trash management. These measures are necessary to lessen the negative effects on public health and the environment that come from bad solid waste management in Nigeria's cities that are growing quickly.