A STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF URBAN WASTE MISMANAGEMENT ON PUBLIC HEALTH: A CASE STUDY OF ABA METROPOLIS, ABIA STATE

A STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF URBAN WASTE MISMANAGEMENT ON PUBLIC HEALTH: A CASE STUDY OF ABA METROPOLIS, ABIA STATE

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Urbanization has emerged as a significant driver of economic transformation in developing countries, but it also brings with it a host of environmental challenges, chief among them being solid waste generation and management. As cities expand, so does the volume of waste generated from residential, industrial, commercial, and institutional activities. When waste is not effectively managed, it accumulates in the environment, leading to pollution, degradation of urban aesthetics, and serious public health risks (World Bank, 2021). In Nigeria, where urban planning and infrastructural development often lag behind rapid population growth, urban waste mismanagement has become an escalating crisis.

Aba Metropolis in Abia State is a major commercial and industrial hub in southeastern Nigeria. The city's economic vitality and population density have contributed to an increased rate of waste generation. However, the absence of an efficient and sustainable waste management system has led to indiscriminate dumping of refuse in open spaces, waterways, and roadsides. The lack of waste segregation, poor collection routines, limited landfill infrastructure, and the absence of recycling initiatives exacerbate the problem. This results in blocked drainage systems, frequent flooding, breeding of disease vectors such as mosquitoes and rodents, and air and water pollution (Okoli & Madu, 2022).

The health implications of this situation are grave. Residents of Aba are frequently exposed to health risks such as cholera, typhoid, malaria, respiratory infections, and skin diseases due to close proximity to unmanaged waste and contaminated water sources (Ume & Eze, 2020). Vulnerable populations, particularly children, the elderly, and low-income earners living in slums, bear the brunt of these conditions. Despite several government and non-governmental interventions aimed at addressing waste management challenges in Aba, the problem persists, largely due to poor governance, lack of public awareness, inadequate funding, and non-compliance with environmental regulations.

The environmental and health crises in Aba are symptomatic of broader systemic issues affecting urban management in Nigeria. However, the city's peculiar socio-economic structure, informal waste collection systems, and limited data availability make it essential to conduct a localized study. Understanding the link between waste mismanagement and public health outcomes in Aba is critical for informing targeted interventions, promoting community-based solutions, and enhancing policy effectiveness. This study, therefore, seeks to examine the nature of waste management practices in Aba Metropolis and their direct and indirect impact on public health.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Urban waste mismanagement remains one of the most visible and pressing environmental issues in Aba Metropolis. Streets are often littered with uncollected garbage, drainage systems are clogged with plastic and organic waste, and makeshift dumpsites proliferate across residential neighborhoods. Despite existing waste management structures established by municipal authorities, collection is inconsistent, disposal sites are inadequate, and public cooperation is minimal. Consequently, urban residents are exposed to a hazardous environment that fosters the spread of communicable diseases and reduces overall quality of life (Eze & Nwachukwu, 2021).

Although there have been initiatives to improve waste handling, including outsourcing waste collection to private contractors and sensitizing communities on proper disposal, these efforts have achieved limited success due to poor implementation, corruption, and a lack of accountability. There is also a gap in empirical data linking urban waste mismanagement to specific public health outcomes in Aba. This lack of data makes it difficult to assess the magnitude of the problem or develop effective solutions. It is within this context that the study aims to examine the correlation between urban waste practices and the health conditions of residents, providing evidence for policy design and resource prioritization.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

To examine current urban waste management practices in Aba Metropolis.

To assess the public health effects of waste mismanagement on residents of Aba.

To evaluate the effectiveness of existing waste management policies and initiatives in mitigating health risks.

1.4 Research Questions

What are the prevailing waste management practices in Aba Metropolis?

How does the mismanagement of urban waste affect public health in the city?

How effective are current policies and interventions in addressing waste-related health hazards?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

H0₁: There is no significant relationship between urban waste mismanagement and the incidence of public health issues in Aba Metropolis.

H0₂: The existing waste management interventions have no significant effect on reducing health risks associated with waste accumulation in Aba.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is valuable to urban planners, public health officials, environmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and policymakers. By establishing a connection between waste mismanagement and health outcomes, the research will help stakeholders identify priority areas for intervention. It also seeks to promote more efficient and inclusive waste management policies, encourage environmental awareness among residents, and contribute to broader sustainability and public health discourse in Nigerian urban centers. In academic circles, the study contributes to the growing literature on environmental health and urban ecology in sub-Saharan Africa.

1.7 Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study is confined to the Aba Metropolis in Abia State and focuses on urban waste generation, management practices, and public health impacts. Data will be collected from selected neighborhoods, health institutions, and waste management authorities. Limitations may include access constraints in densely populated informal settlements, reluctance of participants to disclose health-related information, and possible gaps in municipal data records.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

Urban Waste Mismanagement: The improper collection, disposal, or treatment of solid waste in urban areas, leading to environmental hazards.

Public Health: The health and well-being of populations, especially as influenced by environmental conditions and access to healthcare.

Aba Metropolis: A major urban and industrial center in southeastern Nigeria, serving as the case study area for this research.

Waste Management Policies: Regulations and programs initiated by authorities to handle waste generation, disposal, and recycling.

1.9 Structure of the Study

The dissertation is structured into five chapters. Chapter One introduces the study’s context, problem, and objectives. Chapter Two reviews the literature on urban waste management and public health linkages. Chapter Three outlines the research design, data collection techniques, and analytical methods. Chapter Four presents the data analysis and interpretation of results. Chapter Five concludes with findings, policy recommendations, and directions for further research.

 

References

Eze, C. M., & Nwachukwu, J. N. (2021). Urban waste management and environmental health in Nigerian cities: A case of Aba. African Journal of Environmental Management, 15(2), 87–101.

Okoli, C. A., & Madu, S. I. (2022). Waste disposal practices and public health risks in southeastern Nigeria. Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 8(1), 45–62.

Ume, O. A., & Eze, M. I. (2020). The implications of solid waste accumulation for urban health in Nigeria: A study of Aba. Nigerian Journal of Public Health, 6(3), 22–34.

World Bank. (2021). Solid Waste Management in Urban Areas: Global Status and Recommendations. Washington, DC: World Bank Publications.