Solid waste management in Maiduguri metropolis: how much are high-income household willing to pay for improved collection?

Abstract

This study analysed households’ willingness to pay for improved solid waste collection among high-income households in Maiduguri metropolis, Borno state, Nigeria. The data were gathered through structured questionnaires using the Kobo Toolbox. The research employed a stratified sampling approach in a multistage manner. In the initial stage, Maiduguri's wards were categorised based on income levels. Subsequently, two out of the three high-income wards were randomly chosen. The Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) was utilised to determine the willingness-to-pay values, and the probit model was employed for result analysis. The study revealed some issues related to solid waste as highly important, with varying degrees of urgency assigned to specific concerns such as erosion, pollution, climate change, and habitat loss. Results from the analysis indicated that several factors such as gender, level of education, age category, employment status, household size, income category, house ownership, number of rooms, and duration of stay significantly influence respondents' willingness to pay for improved household collection management services. The study also revealed that households within the study area were willing to pay ₦5,795 monthly for improved solid waste collection. The study recommends private companies devise focused approaches aimed at optimising community involvement and collaboration to attain efficient household collection management. The government should also launch educational campaigns to inform residents about the environmental and health risks associated with "Local dump facility" and "Burning" methods.