Indigenous Knowledge System of waste management in Nigeria

Abstract

The paper examines the Indigenous Knowledge Systems of waste management in Nigeria, with particular emphasis on waste reduction techniques of reuse and recycling. In spite of the efforts of public and private agencies, heaps of wastes are still seen in Nigerian major cities. This observation has directed concerns towards the exploration of the indigenous waste management practices for possible adoption. Any developmental effort must be culturally feasible and relevant. The study observes the existence of indigenous techniques of waste management which were hitherto adequate for the volume and types of wastes generated long before the growing population in Nigeria. The study recommends further research on the existing methods to be complimented with the scientific and technological efforts, creation of awareness, encouragement of industries and businesses, creation of processing facilities and Waste Marketing Board as well as allowing the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) to stand and operate independent of the Ministry of Environment.