Environmental Assessment of Abattoir Operations and Waste Management in Maiduguri, Borno State

Abattoir operations generate large volumes of liquid and solid waste that, if improperly managed, can contaminate water sources, attract disease vectors, and create nuisance conditions for surrounding communities. This study conducted an environmental assessment of abattoir operations and waste management practices at the Maiduguri central abattoir, Borno State, North East Nigeria. A comprehensive observational survey was conducted using a structured environmental health assessment checklist. Water samples from drains and nearby boreholes were analyzed for biological oxygen demand, total coliforms, and fecal coliforms. Air quality measurements focused on ammonia and hydrogen sulfide concentrations. Structured interviews were held with forty-five abattoir workers and ten supervisory officials. Results indicated that wastewater was discharged untreated into adjacent open drains, with biological oxygen demand values exceeding 500 mg/L, far above acceptable discharge limits. Solid waste including offal and bone remnants accumulated in undesignated areas, with disposal occurring only twice weekly. Ammonia concentrations at the abattoir perimeter exceeded threshold limit values for occupational settings. Vector infestation was extensive, with both fly and rodent activity observed throughout the facility. Worker knowledge of zoonotic disease risks was inadequate in sixty-nine percent of respondents. The study recommends construction of a functional effluent treatment system, establishment of a designated waste containment area, and implementation of routine environmental health inspections. Keywords: abattoir, waste management, Maiduguri, wastewater, environmental pollution.