📖 ABSTRACT/OVERVIEW
The proliferation of electronic waste from rapidly growing information and communications technology consumption in Nigeria generates toxic heavy metal and persistent organic pollutant loads that are poorly managed in informal recycling clusters. This study assesses the effects of improper e-waste disposal and informal recycling activities on soil contamination in and around Computer Village, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria's largest electronic goods trading and repair cluster. Soil samples were collected at 24 points across the Computer Village area and two control sites at progressively greater distances. Samples were analysed for lead, cadmium, mercury, copper, chromium, and polybrominated diphenyl ether concentrations using atomic absorption spectrometry and gas chromatography. Observational surveys documented prevalent e-waste handling and disposal practices, and structured interviews with 60 traders and repair technicians assessed awareness of health and environmental risks. Laboratory results indicate lead concentrations up to 6,800 milligrams per kilogram in surface soils near open burning and dismantling areas, exceeding Dutch intervention values by a factor of nine. Cadmium and mercury also exceed reference values at multiple sites. Informal workers report minimal use of protective equipment and inadequate awareness of toxic exposure pathways. Contamination gradients extend up to 150 metres from primary e-waste handling areas. The study recommends designation of a formal e-waste collection and pre-processing facility compliant with Nigerian e-waste management regulations, mandatory occupational health training for informal workers, and periodic soil monitoring by Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency. Keywords: e-waste, soil contamination, heavy metals, Computer Village, informal recycling.
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