Abstract

Despite significant efforts to improve urban waste management in Nigeria, improper street waste disposal continues to plague major cities, creating complex environmental, social, and public health challenges. Street waste accumulation in urban areas manifests through various infrastructure deficiencies, including inadequate collection vehicles, limited transfer stations, poor road networks, and insufficient waste collection points. While previous research has explored various aspects of waste management, there remains a critical gap in understanding the interrelated drivers of improper street waste management in Nigerian urban areas. The study reveals that improper street waste management stems from multiple interrelated factors. Key findings indicate that institutional weaknesses, inadequate infrastructure, and limited financial resources create fundamental barriers to effective waste management. The study however, classify the drivers of improper street waste management which are social, economic, technological, environmental, cultural, and institutional drivers and their impacts on socio-economic, health and environment. In addition, social attitudes and behavioural patterns significantly influence waste management outcomes, while weak policy implementation and poor enforcement mechanisms compound these challenges. The research concludes that successful transformation of street waste management requires integrated approaches that combine technical solutions with social considerations. Recommendations requiring careful consideration for effective street waste management should emphasize strengthening institutional frameworks, developing sustainable financing mechanisms, enhancing community engagement, and implementing effective enforcement strategies based on successful African models. A successful street waste management programmes requires that phased implementation, coupled with regular monitoring and evaluation offers the most effective pathway forward.

Copyright of the paper named above is hereby assigned and transferred to the Nigerian Journal of Applied Science and Innovative Technology published by College of Engineering, Bells University of Technology, Nigeria.