Effectiveness and Efficiency of Solid Waste Services in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

Lagos is the largest producer of municipal solid waste in Nigeria, yet it is the smallest of Nigeria’s 36 states with the highest projected population, highest level of urbanization and it houses Nigeria’s largest chief port, and principal economic and cultural centres. Out of the total waste generated, only about 73 percent actually got to the final disposal site. There is a possibility of inefficient and ineffective municipal solid waste management system in place which can damage the ecosystem services, contaminate ground and surface water, creates greenhouse gas emissions, increase disease transmission, damages ecosystem services and discourages tourism and other businesses. To this end, this study analysed the efficiency and effectiveness of solid waste services and; the efficiency and effectiveness of solid waste services in Lagos State using primary data and conducting statistical tests. The study found a general agreement on what constitutes efficient and effective solid waste services. However, the study concluded that the waste management system in Lagos State is inefficient, ineffective and therefore; unsustainable. The study therefore recommends among others the urgent need to re-organize the waste management institutions for effective and efficient performance. This requiressubstantial planning ability, appropriate equipment and continuous managerial optimization of vehicles and workers productivity,efficient vehicle routing, better designed vehicles, managerial incentives, faster vehicle repairs, vehicle standardization.