Circular Economy, Waste Minimization and Resource Efficiency in Nigeria

Nigeria’s growing waste generation and inefficient resource utilization pose significant challenges to environmental sustainability and economic resilience. This study examines the role of circular economy practices in promoting waste minimization and resource efficiency in Nigeria using a mixed-methods research design. Quantitative data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 398 respondents drawn from manufacturing firms, waste management agencies, and environmental regulatory institutions, while qualitative insights were obtained from semi-structured interviews with 15 key informants across the same sectors. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were employed to test two hypotheses, complemented by thematic analysis of interview data. The findings reveal that circular economy practices have a significant positive effect on waste minimization (β = 0.621, p < 0.05) and resource efficiency (β = 0.584, p < 0.05). Qualitative evidence further shows that recycling, material reuse, and recovery initiatives reduce landfill disposal, improve material productivity, and lower operational costs, although their effectiveness is constrained by weak policy enforcement, limited financing, and inadequate technical capacity. Anchored on ecological modernization theory and the resource-based view, the study concludes that a transition from linear to circular production systems is essential for achieving sustainable development in Nigeria. The study recommends strengthening regulatory frameworks, investing in circular infrastructure, and integrating informal sector actors to scale circular economy implementation.