Operational characteristics of private sector participation in solid waste transportation in Lagos Metropolis, Nigeria

The focus of this study is the examination of the operational characteristics of private sector participants (PSPs) in solid waste collection and transportation in Lagos Metropolis, Nigeria. Primary data were obtained from 162 incidentally selected waste loaders and drivers of PSPs across five local government areas (Ojo, Eti-Osa, Ikeja, Alimosho, Mushin and Surulere) of the Metropolis through questionnaire administration. Information obtained were the socio-economic characteristics of the operators and the modes of operations in solid waste transportation. Physical observation was also carried out for holistic and detailed assessment of their activities. Findings established that operation of waste collection and transportation begins upon registration with Lagos State Waste Management Authority. The operators used wheelbarrow, rake, open truck, nose cover, shovel, basket, hand glove, compactor truck and other crude equipment in the collection of solid waste from point of storage into the vehicle. The majority (76.5%) of the operators were male youths with low educational qualifications. The study further showed that 58.0% of the operators made a trip per day to the dump site, and the frequency of waste collection from households, buildings and any other generators was usually three times a week. Due to traffic congestion, disposing waste is most often a trip per day. The study concluded that private sector participation in solid waste management should be highly encouraged, well monitored, facilitated and regulated for effective and efficient performance.