Re-Examining Hazardous Waste in Nigeria: Practical Possibilities within the United Nations System

Abstract

Over several decades, Nigeria has still not been let off the hook for the leeching effects of environmental pollution, particularly that caused by ever-growing mountains of hazardous waste. From the harmful gases put into the atmosphere or the toxic waste released into water bodies and to the waste produced from our homes, the unchecked creation of hazardous waste continues to pose a threat not just to the health and lives of both present and future generations but also to economic growth and development as well as the enjoyment of basic human rights. This article aims at examining the major issues surrounding the unbridled production of hazardous waste in Nigeria as well as some practical possibilities within the United Nations system to put an end to the menace. In so doing, a doctrinal method of legal research is employed by conducting a qualitative content analysis of primary and secondary sources of materials. This article finds that in the absence of practical and innovative actions to stem the relentless growth in waste, the future of Nigeria's economic growth is hazy. It is concluded that if the country can take a proactive dive into the United Nations system by shifting the focus from ‘waste management’ to ‘resource management’ through legally binding instruments, there may soon be a pathway for Nigeria to create one of the most sustainable economies in the world. This article recommends a substantial step-change involving both national and local political players as well as the general public to implement more practical solutions to hazardous waste in Nigeria.