Assessment of Solid Waste Management Practices in Onitsha Urban Area, Anambra State

Effective solid waste management remains a critical environmental governance challenge in Nigeria's rapidly growing secondary cities. This study assesses the prevailing solid waste management practices in Onitsha Urban Area, Anambra State, examining waste generation patterns, collection efficiency, disposal methods, and institutional capacity. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining household surveys administered to 180 respondents across six residential zones, key informant interviews with Anambra State Solid Waste Management Authority officials, and field observation of waste collection and disposal sites. Waste characterisation was conducted at three collection points to determine composition and volume. Results reveal that only 44 percent of solid waste generated in Onitsha receives formal collection services, with the remainder disposed of through open dumping, burning, and drainage channel discharge. Market waste accounts for the largest single waste stream, yet market-specific collection infrastructure is inadequate. Institutional challenges including irregular budgetary releases, insufficient collection vehicles, and limited staff capacity are documented as systemic constraints. The study identifies informal waste pickers as significant actors in the waste value chain who currently operate without legal recognition or health protection. Recommendations include formalising informal sector participation, establishing material recovery facilities, and increasing community sensitisation on waste segregation. Keywords: solid waste management, waste collection, Onitsha, urban environment, waste governance.