IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

IIARD INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GEOGRAPHY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (IJGEM )

E-ISSN 2504-8821
P-ISSN 2695-1878
VOL. 11 NO. 6 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijgem.vol.11.no6.2025.pg124.132

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Effect of Waste Management on Surface Water Quality of River Cosine and Chinda in Obio/Akpor, Rivers State

Naabura M. K., Abere, S. A., Gobo A. E., Ayotamuno, A.

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Abstract

This study investigated the effect of waste management on surface water quality in the Cosine and Chinda rivers, located in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. The objective was to examine the types of solid waste generated, evaluate the disposal techniques employed by the local water authority, and identify the implications for water quality in both rivers. A mixed-methods approach combining structured questionnaires and statistical analysis was adopted, and 400 respondents were surveyed. Descriptive statistics revealed that both rivers had similar solid waste compositions, with organic waste being the most dominant, followed by plastics, paper, metals, and hazardous materials. Recreational and domestic activities were the major sources of waste, while construction and agricultural activities played a secondary role. Z- test analysis showed no statistically significant differences in the types of waste generated in the two rivers (p = 0.722), confirming the homogeneity of waste patterns. However, significant differences were observed in waste management techniques (p < 0.000), with Chinda outperforming Cosine in areas such as leachate monitoring, recycling infrastructure, and routine waste collection. These findings suggest disparities in the effectiveness and implementation of sanitation strategies, with potential implications for surface water quality management in urbanizing regions. The study recommends targeted infrastructure investments, improved regulatory oversight, and community-based waste management strategies to safeguard river health and public safety.

keywords:

Waste, Management, Surface, Water & Quality

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