Electronic Waste Management in Nigeria: Issues and Challenges

Abstract

Access to Information & Communication Technology (ICT) is pivotal to a country’s economic and social development and is currently improving throughout the developed and developing world. Nigeria has been undergoing rapid ICT transformation in recent years, attempting to bridge the digital divide by importing electrical and electronic equipment (EEE), which soon become technologically obsolete and find their way into
landfills as electronic waste (e-waste) that pose health and environmental hazards to humans, livestock and ecology, if not properly managed. This paper reviews the issues relating to e-waste and identifies their sources, components and the dangers they pose to the environment. Sustainable means of managing e-waste in Nigeria was discussed. Recommendations were made on appropriate treatment of e-waste in order to make the environment safe for all.