Residents' participation and perception of environmental sanitation program in Ogun East Senatorial District, Nigeria: a mixed-method approach

This study investigated residents' participation and perceptions of the monthly environmental sanitation program in three local government areas, located in Ogun East Senatorial District, Ogun State, Nigeria. The research employed both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Structured and unstructured questionnaire-based interviews and participatory observations were the main methods used. A total of 640 households were selected from 32 wards through a stratified random sampling procedure. The results indicated moderate participation (50%) of residents as well as mixed attitudes and perceptions regarding the success of this government intervention. The activities associated with this program are not well planned and executed as domestic waste is often dumped indiscriminately along streets and open spaces, without any prior sorting and separation at sources. Another major challenge is that such waste is not evacuated timeously by municipal vehicles to sites where it must be finally disposed of, thus reflecting inherent institutional weaknesses at local government level. The study recommends improved adherence and implementation of relevant and applicable policies and laws as well as the introduction of systematic public environmental awareness campaigns designed to help inform and improve current public attitudes and perceptions towards the sanitation program.