SANITATION PROBLEMS IN NIGERIA: SOME SUGGESTED POLICY OPTIONS

Abstract

This study attempts to discuss the sanitation problems of this country. This is necessitated by the poor sanitary conditions of our environment all over the country as it affects the health status of our people. The area looked into cover housing, water supply and refuse disposal as they affect sanitation. The concern is because these areas are responsible for the primary environmental health problems of the country.

In the area of housing, the consequences of inadequacy of houses and poor facilities among other reasons has been noted to be responsible for overcrowding resulting in degrading the environment. Also insufficient ventilation and poor excreta disposal, provide suitable conditions for communicable diseases to flourish.

As for water supply, the inadequacy in both quality and quantity results in poor hygienic habits. Provision of adequate water supply has been identified to be cost intensive. The inability of Government to provide enough funding suggests a need for consumers to pay proper charges for water supply.

With respect to refuse disposal, it was noted that the generation of refuse has by far surpassed the disposal efforts. The Local Government charged with this responsibility is found to be incapable of financing this sector.

A way out of this predicament is the need for provision of adequate houses with suitable facilities, partial commercialization of water supply while refuse disposal is fully commercialised. Also the re-introduction of sanitary inspectors to re-enforce the existing FEPA environmental Laws while active programme of aawareness of clean environment should be embarked upon.