Attitudinal Differences among Market Users in the Utilization of Environmental Sanitation and Waste Management Infrastructure in Major Markets of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

Environmental sanitation infrastructure is fundamental to achieving healthy market environments, promoting public health, and ensuring sustainable urban development. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of sanitation infrastructure depends not only on its availability but also on the willingness of users to utilize it appropriately. This study assessed the attitudinal differences among market users in the utilization of available environmental sanitation and waste management infrastructure in major markets of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Primary data were obtained through structured questionnaires administered to 380 respondents selected through stratified and simple random sampling techniques from nine major markets across the three senatorial districts of Akwa Ibom State. Additional data were collected through field observation and key informant interviews with officials of environmental management agencies and market associations. Descriptive statistics, mean score analysis, Relative Importance Index (RII), independent sample t-test, and one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were employed for data analysis. The findings revealed significant variations in market users' attitudes towards the utilization of sanitation infrastructure. While respondents demonstrated positive attitudes towards routine sanitation activities such as sweeping trading spaces, payment of sanitation levies, and participation in monthly environmental sanitation exercises, relatively poor attitudes were observed regarding waste segregation, recycling, and the utilization of designated waste storage facilities. Educational attainment, environmental awareness, accessibility of sanitation infrastructure, and institutional enforcement significantly influenced sanitation behaviour among market users (p < 0.05). The study concludes that behavioural change remains a critical determinant of environmental sanitation effectiveness in markets. It recommends continuous environmental education, improved sanitation infrastructure, stronger institutional enforcement, and active participation of market associations in sanitation management to promote sustainable waste management practices in major markets.