CAMPAIGN AGAINST OPEN WASTE DUMP IN NIGERIA: THE ROLE OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION

Abstract

Health communication is an essential tool in disseminating adequate health information and creating necessary awareness/ consciousness among the people of a geographical location. It also helps in facilitating effective decision making that enhances public health. Waste, if not properly managed often cause a serious environmental and health risk. The current unwholesome waste disposal practices and management system in Nigeria is very worrisome and poses a classic health communication challenge. The paper concluded that open waste dumpsites is the simplest way of waste disposal, as such, there is need to direct appropriate health communication strategies to change the unwholesome attitude, behavior and practices towards waste disposal and dumpsites management. It also advocates for the use of health communication to mobilize and sensitize the people towards appropriate waste disposal as well as speedy adoption of modern waste management system to ensure adequate protection of the environment and public health.