KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES OF REFUSE DISPOSAL IN OKELELE, ILORIN, NIGERIA

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Improper refuse disposal remains an environmental health concern in many Nigerian communities. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes and practices relating to refuse disposal among adult residents of Okelele community, Ilorin East Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional community-based study was conducted among 180 adults. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes and disposal practices. Descriptive statistics summarised responses, and chi-square tests assessed associations between categorical variables at a 5% significance level. RESULTS: Of 180 respondents, 102 (56.7%) had good knowledge, while 87 (48.3%) had negative attitudes and 99 (55.0%) had poor refuse-disposal practices. Commonly reported practices included incineration (50.6%), disposal into drains (30.6%) and open burning (21.7%). Absence of waste containers (37.2%) and distance to available containers (28.9%) were the leading reported barriers. Knowledge was associated with practice (chi-square=22.122; p<0.001) and attitude (chi-square=8.221; p=0.016); practice was also associated with attitude (chi-square=5.970; p=0.015). CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS FOR TRANSLATION: Despite generally good knowledge, poor disposal practices were common. Improving access to reliable waste-collection infrastructure, alongside community education and enforcement of local waste-management measures, may help translate knowledge into safer practices. Keywords: Solid waste; Waste management; Knowledge; Attitude; Health behavior; Nigeria